answersLogoWhite

0

Use term grouping, mathematical operations, and mathematical theorem/identity property rules.

For example: 4x + 5 + x^2 - 2 - x = 1

1. Group (rearrange) similar terms together. Group all the x terms in descending exponential order and group all the decimal number from greatest value to least value as shown below. Note: You may need to use identity property rules to ensure the proper sign/s of a term/s when moving it/them from one side of an equation (i.e. terms placed on both sides of an equal (=) symbol) to the other. Similar terms are terms that look similar (they have the same base & exponent.

x^2 + 4x - x + 5 - 2 - 1 = 1 - 1

Note: - 1 was added to both sides of the equation to facilitate combining decimal numbers in step 2 (below), using the "identity property of addition" method.

2. Combine like terms using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and or division (where applicable).

x^2 + 3x + 2 = 0

Note: x^2 and 4x could not be combined because they do NOT have the same exponents.

3. Below is an example to show the application of the identity property of multiplication:

4x = 2x + y

-2x + 4x = 2x + y -2x

2x = y

1/2 * 2x = y * 1/2

x = y/2

check: x,y=(10,20)

4*10 = 2*10+20

40 = 20+20

40 = 40 = true

=========================

Answer Provided by previous responder:

=========================

We combine terms that have the same variables.

User Avatar

Wiki User

12y ago

Still curious? Ask our experts.

Chat with our AI personalities

BlakeBlake
As your older brother, I've been where you are—maybe not exactly, but close enough.
Chat with Blake
ReneRene
Change my mind. I dare you.
Chat with Rene
JordanJordan
Looking for a career mentor? I've seen my fair share of shake-ups.
Chat with Jordan

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: How do you combine like terms in math?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp