Simplify Algebraic Expressions

Grades 6-8Key Stage 3Årskurs 7-8

Problem

Simplify: 3(2x - 4) + 5x - 2

📝Step-by-Step Solution

Distribute the 3

Multiply 3 by each term inside the parentheses: 3(2x - 4) = 6x - 12

3(2x - 4) = 6x - 12

Rewrite the expression

Replace 3(2x - 4) with 6x - 12 in the original expression.

6x - 12 + 5x - 2

Identify like terms

Like terms have the same variable and power. Here: 6x and 5x are like terms. -12 and -2 are like terms (constants).

Combine like terms

Add the x terms: 6x + 5x = 11x. Add the constants: -12 + (-2) = -14.

6x + 5x = 11x; -12 - 2 = -14

Write the simplified expression

Combine the results: 11x - 14

11x - 14

✅Final Answer

11x - 14

To simplify expressions: (1) Remove parentheses using distribution, (2) Identify like terms (same variable, same power), (3) Combine like terms by adding/subtracting coefficients. Note: You cannot combine terms like 3x and 5x² because they have different powers.

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