How Do You Combine Like Terms Step By Step?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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When combining like terms, such as 2x and 3x, we add their coefficients . For example, 2x + 3x = (2+3)x = 5x.

What is the process of combining like terms in math?

Like terms are terms with variables raised to the same power. We combine like terms by adding or subtracting the coefficients of the terms .

What is the first step in combining like terms?

We begin by distributing the constant terms into the terms inside the parenthesis . Then, rearrange the terms so that similar terms are clustered together. Finally, combine like terms by adding or subtracting whichever is required. Example 6: Simplify the expression below.

What are the three steps for combining like terms?

Step 1: Organize your like terms. You can use a highlighter, shapes, or just rewrite the problem so that the like terms are next to each other. Step 2 : Combine the coefficients . Step 1: Organize your like terms.

How do you combine like terms?

Like Terms: Terms that have identical variable parts (same variable(s) and same exponent(s)). When simplifying using addition and subtraction, you combine “like terms” by keeping the “like term” and adding or subtracting the numerical coefficients .

Are 5 and 2 like terms?

“Like terms” are terms whose variables (and their exponents such as the 2 in x 2 ) are the same. In other words, terms that are “like” each other. Note: the coefficients (the numbers you multiply by, such as “5” in 5x) can be different.

Can you combine negative and positive like terms?

Combining like terms is pretty chill , as long as we’re careful with our negative and positive numbers. ... Look Out: we can only combine terms with the exact same variables with the same exponents!

How do you add and subtract like terms?

To add two or more monomials that are like terms, add the coefficients ; keep the variables and exponents on the variables the same. To subtract two or more monomials that are like terms, subtract the coefficients; keep the variables and exponents on the variables the same. on the variables the same.

How do you simplify?

Overview. The word simplify means to make something easier to do or understand. So, reducing or simplifying fractions means we make the fraction as simple as possible. We do this by dividing the numerator and the denominator by the largest number that can divide into both numbers exactly .

How do you simplify like terms?

Like terms are combined in algebraic expression so that the result of the expression can be calculated with ease. For example, 7xy + 6y + 6xy is an algebraic equation whose terms are 7xy and 6xy. Therefore, this expression can be simplified by combining like terms as 7xy + 6xy + 6y = 13xy + y .

How do you combine two negative terms?

When you have two negative signs, one turns over, and they add together to make a positive . If you have a positive and a negative, there is one dash left over, and the answer is negative.

How do you combine two negative words?

  1. The unlike terms 2ab and 4bc cannot be added together to form a single term. ...
  2. 5x + 3y + 2x + 3x. ...
  3. 3x 3 + 7y.

Are Y and y2 like terms?

Like terms are terms that have the same exponent AND the same variable or variables. For example, 2x and –5x are like terms, and 3y2 and y2 are like terms.

Is B 8 a Monomial?

Any number all by itself is a monomial, like 5 or 2,700. A monomial can also be a variable, like “b” or “y.” It can also be a combination of these, like 98b or xy.

Can you combine the terms 3x and 4×2?

So if you have something like x 3 + x 2 , do not try to say that this somehow equals something like x 5 or 5x. The terms are unlike, and cannot be combined .

When you combine like terms do you add or subtract?

Like Terms: Terms that have identical variable parts (same variable(s) and same exponent(s)). When simplifying using addition and subtraction, you combine “like terms” by keeping the “like term” and adding or subtracting the numerical coefficients .

Leah Jackson
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Leah Jackson
Leah is a relationship coach with over 10 years of experience working with couples and individuals to improve their relationships. She holds a degree in psychology and has trained with leading relationship experts such as John Gottman and Esther Perel. Leah is passionate about helping people build strong, healthy relationships and providing practical advice to overcome common relationship challenges.