(–3, –4)
B.
(–3, 1)
C.
(1, –4)
D.
(–4, –3)
combined like terms
Combining like terms must always be in descending order.
Start with the exponents.
As we see, there is no other exponents so we would leave it as such.
Progress on to the next greatest which are the variables.
Add all of the coefficients
Lastly, move on to the single numbers.
Add them together as shown above, but this time there are no coefficients so it is just a matter of addition and subtraction
Therefore, the answer is:
Like terms are terms that are alike. 5x and 3x are like terms because they have a coefficient along with a variable. Like terms are terms that can be added together.
We are given:
Since the term can't be combined to anything, let's combine our x terms. Here is what we will combine:
When combined, they equal 9x. So our expression is now:
Now, let's combine our regular numbers. We will be adding:
Now, our expression is even more simplified. We are left with:
This is your final answer. Nothing can be combined further. Fun fact, this is in standard form and you will be using it in higher algebra.