I am having a hard time simplifying problems can anyone help.
Example; 8.4x+14-9.2x-8.1
8.4x+14-9.2x-8.1
Keep the terms with an unknown separate from the known terms.
8.4x - 9.2x = -0.8x
14 - 8.1 = 5.9
8.4x+14-9.2x-8.1 = -0.8x + 5.9
Thanks Ms. Sue
You're welcome, Stressed.
Of course, I'd be happy to help! To simplify the expression 8.4x + 14 - 9.2x - 8.1, you can combine like terms by adding or subtracting the coefficients of the variables. Here's how you can do it step by step:
Step 1: Group the terms with the variable 'x' together and the constant terms separately:
(8.4x - 9.2x) + (14 - 8.1)
Step 2: Combine the 'x' terms by performing the indicated subtraction:
(-0.8x) + (14 - 8.1)
Step 3: Subtract the constant terms:
(-0.8x) + (5.9)
The simplified expression is -0.8x + 5.9.
Now, let me explain the process in a bit more detail. When simplifying expressions, it's crucial to group like terms together. To do this, you identify terms that have the same variable(s) raised to the same power(s) and combine their coefficients.
In the given example, we have two terms with 'x': 8.4x and -9.2x. By subtracting their coefficients, we get -0.8x. Similarly, the constants 14 and -8.1 can be combined by subtraction, resulting in 5.9. Thus, simplifying the expression gives us -0.8x + 5.9.
Remember, practice makes perfect when it comes to simplifying expressions. The more you work with them, the more comfortable you'll become with the process!