How to Simplify Algebraic Expressions: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Simplifying algebraic expressions is a crucial skill in mathematics, often used in various equations and real-world applications. This guide walks you through essential methods such as distribution and combining like terms. We will discuss several examples, ensuring clarity on how to simplify expressions effectively.

Understanding Algebraic Expressions

An algebraic expression is a combination of numbers, variables, and operations. For instance, the expression 7(s + 9) + 2s involves distributing and simplifying to find a clearer representation.

Key Concepts

  • Distribution: The process of multiplying a term by each term inside parentheses.
  • Combining Like Terms: Adding or subtracting terms that have the same variable to simplify an expression.

Example 1: Simplifying 7(s + 9) + 2s

Let's break down the expression 7(s + 9) + 2s step by step:

  1. Distribute the 7:

    • Multiply 7 by s and 9:
      • 7 * s = 7s
      • 7 * 9 = 63
    • So, we rewrite the expression as:
      • 7s + 63 + 2s
  2. Combine Like Terms:

    • Combine 7s and 2s:
      • 7s + 2s = 9s
    • Thus, the expression simplifies to:
      • 9s + 63

Example 2: Simplifying -4 - (q - 10) + 5

Next, we will simplify the expression -4 - (q - 10) + 5:

  1. Distribute the Negative Sign:

    • Remember that distributing the negative sign is similar to multiplying by -1:
      • -1 * q = -q
      • -1 * -10 = +10
    • The expression can now be rewritten as:
      • -4 - q + 10 + 5
  2. Combine Like Terms:

    • First, combine the constant terms:
      • -4 + 10 + 5 = 6 + 5 = 11
    • The simplified expression is:
      • -q + 11

Example 3: Simplifying -7(i + 2) - 2(2 + i)

Let's move on to -7(i + 2) - 2(2 + i):

  1. Distribute the Terms:

    • For -7(i + 2):
      • -7 * i = -7i
      • -7 * 2 = -14
    • For -2(2 + i):
      • -2 * 2 = -4
      • -2 * i = -2i
    • Thus, our expression now looks like:
      • -7i - 14 - 4 - 2i
  2. Combine Like Terms:

    • Combine -7i and -2i:
      • -7i - 2i = -9i
    • Combine the constant terms:
      • -14 - 4 = -18
    • The final simplified expression is:
      • -9i - 18

Conclusion

The art of simplifying algebraic expressions involves understanding the distribution of terms and effectively combining like terms. Whether you’re working with simple expressions or more complex equations, these steps will help you achieve a clear and simplified result. Always remember to keep practice as your priority to master this essential math skill!

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