Simplifying the Expression: (x² - 4) + (x² + 4) + 16
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the expression (x² - 4) + (x² + 4) + 16.
Understanding the Expression
The expression consists of three terms:
- (x² - 4): This is a binomial, meaning it has two terms.
- (x² + 4): Another binomial.
- 16: A constant term.
Simplifying the Expression
To simplify the expression, we follow the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS) and combine like terms:
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Remove the parentheses: Since we are adding, the parentheses don't affect the order of operations. We can simply write: x² - 4 + x² + 4 + 16
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Combine like terms: Identify terms with the same variable and exponent:
- x² terms: x² + x² = 2x²
- Constant terms: -4 + 4 + 16 = 16
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Combine the results: 2x² + 16
The Simplified Expression
The simplified form of the expression (x² - 4) + (x² + 4) + 16 is 2x² + 16.
Note: This simplified expression can be further factored if needed.