Simplifying Polynomial Expressions: (7x³ – 4x²) + (2x³ – 4x²)
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the polynomial expression (7x³ – 4x²) + (2x³ – 4x²).
Understanding the Basics
Before we begin, let's quickly review some key concepts:
- Polynomial: An expression consisting of variables and coefficients, combined using addition, subtraction, and multiplication.
- Term: Each individual part of a polynomial separated by addition or subtraction.
- Like terms: Terms with the same variable and exponent.
Combining Like Terms
To simplify the expression, we'll combine like terms:
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Identify like terms: In the given expression, we have two sets of like terms:
- 7x³ and 2x³
- -4x² and -4x²
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Combine coefficients: Add the coefficients of like terms while keeping the variable and exponent the same.
- 7x³ + 2x³ = 9x³
- -4x² - 4x² = -8x²
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Write the simplified expression: The simplified expression is the sum of the combined like terms.
- (7x³ – 4x²) + (2x³ – 4x²) = 9x³ - 8x²
Conclusion
Therefore, the simplified form of the polynomial expression (7x³ – 4x²) + (2x³ – 4x²) is 9x³ - 8x². This process of combining like terms is a fundamental step in simplifying and manipulating polynomial expressions.