Simplifying the Expression (x+2)-(x-2)-12x
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the algebraic expression (x+2)-(x-2)-12x.
Understanding the Expression
The expression involves several terms:
- (x+2): This is a binomial representing the sum of 'x' and 2.
- (x-2): This is another binomial representing the difference of 'x' and 2.
- -12x: This is a monomial representing the product of -12 and 'x'.
Simplifying the Expression
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Distribute the negative sign: The minus sign before the second parenthesis indicates that we need to multiply each term inside the parenthesis by -1. This results in: (x + 2) + (-x + 2) - 12x
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Combine like terms: Identify terms with the same variable and exponent. In this case, 'x' and '-x' are like terms, and '2' and '2' are like terms. Combine these terms: (x - x) + (2 + 2) - 12x
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Simplify: Perform the indicated operations: 0 + 4 - 12x
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Final result: The simplified expression is 4 - 12x.
Conclusion
By following the steps above, we successfully simplified the expression (x+2)-(x-2)-12x to 4 - 12x. This simplified form allows for easier analysis and manipulation of the expression in further calculations or equations.