Simplifying Algebraic Expressions: (a^2-3ab+b^2)+(-a^2+ab+b^2)
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the algebraic expression: (a^2-3ab+b^2)+(-a^2+ab+b^2).
Understanding the Expression
The expression consists of two sets of terms enclosed in parentheses:
- (a^2-3ab+b^2)
- (-a^2+ab+b^2)
Each term within the parentheses is a combination of variables (a and b) and constants (coefficients like -3).
Simplifying the Expression
To simplify this expression, we follow these steps:
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Remove the parentheses: Since the expression involves addition between the two sets of terms, the parentheses do not change the order of operations. We can simply remove them:
a^2 - 3ab + b^2 - a^2 + ab + b^2
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Combine like terms: Identify terms with the same variables and exponents. Combine their coefficients:
- a^2 terms: a^2 - a^2 = 0
- ab terms: -3ab + ab = -2ab
- b^2 terms: b^2 + b^2 = 2b^2
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Write the simplified expression: Combine the simplified terms:
0 - 2ab + 2b^2
Final Simplified Expression
The simplified form of the expression (a^2-3ab+b^2)+(-a^2+ab+b^2) is -2ab + 2b^2.