Intermediate Algebra (12th Edition)

by Lial, Margaret L.; Hornsby, John; McGinnis, Terry

Published by Pearson

ISBN 10: 0321969359

ISBN 13: 978-0-32196-935-4

Chapter R - Section R.4 - Properties of Real Numbers - R.4 Exercises - Page 37: 8

Answer

Work Step by Step

When simplifying an expression, only like terms can be combined. For example, we can simplify $2a+7a=(2+7)a=(9)a$, because both terms share the same variable and are raised to the same power. For an expression with non-like terms like $4a+7b$, we cannot simplify any further.

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