Simplifying Polynomial Expressions
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the following polynomial expression:
(8m^4 + m^2 - 4m - 8) - (1 - 4m + 3m^2 - m^4)
Step 1: Distribute the Negative Sign
Begin by distributing the negative sign in front of the second set of parentheses. This means multiplying each term inside the parentheses by -1:
(8m^4 + m^2 - 4m - 8) + (-1 + 4m - 3m^2 + m^4)
Step 2: Combine Like Terms
Now, combine the terms with the same variable and exponent:
(8m^4 + m^4) + (m^2 - 3m^2) + (-4m + 4m) + (-8 - 1)
Step 3: Simplify
Finally, perform the arithmetic operations:
9m^4 - 2m^2 - 9
Conclusion
The simplified form of the polynomial expression (8m^4 + m^2 - 4m - 8) - (1 - 4m + 3m^2 - m^4) is 9m^4 - 2m^2 - 9. Remember to always follow the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS) when simplifying expressions.