Simplifying the Expression: (7a³ - 2a - 2) + (-5a + 3)
This expression involves combining like terms, which are terms that have the same variable and exponent. Let's break down the process step-by-step:
1. Identify Like Terms:
- 7a³: This term has no other similar term in the expression.
- -2a and -5a: These terms have the same variable ('a') and exponent (1).
- -2 and 3: These are constant terms.
2. Combine Like Terms:
- 7a³: There are no other terms with 'a³' so it remains the same.
- -2a - 5a = -7a: Combine the coefficients of 'a'.
- -2 + 3 = 1: Combine the constants.
3. Final Simplified Expression:
Putting everything together, the simplified expression is: 7a³ - 7a + 1
Therefore, the simplified form of (7a³ - 2a - 2) + (-5a + 3) is 7a³ - 7a + 1.