Multi-Step Equations with Like Terms

Key Questions

  • How do you combine like terms?

    You combine like terms by variable(s) and exponent(s).

    The variables and exponent must match in order to combine.

    So take #x^2 + x#. Variables (x and x) match, but exponents (2 and 1) do not, so you cannot combine

    Take #x^2 + y^2#. Exponents (2 and 2) match, but variables (x and y) do not.

    Now, take #3x^2 + 5x^2# These CAN be combine since the variable of x and power of 2 match.

    So we have #3x^2 + 5x^2 = (3 + 5)x^2 = 8x^2#

    Like Term Calculator

    Don S. · 3 · Dec 14 2014
  • How do you solve multi step equations by combining like terms?

    Example . Solve: 3x + 4m - 5 = 2x - 2m + 7.
    First, combine x terms: -2x = - 2x
    x + 4m - 5 = -2m + 7
    Next, combine m terms and constants
    - 4m + 5 = - 4m + 5
    ______
    x = -6m + 12

    Nghi N. · 2 · Apr 26 2015

Questions

Linear Equations