i need help on my algebra homework on combining like terms how can i find the solution for this problem-----> -(m+4)-3(7-m)

Question

on my homework it sais combining like terms but i dnt know wut to do

 

Answer 1

I would suggest first opening the brackets up.

-(m+4) would became -m-4

-3(7-m) would became -21+3m

and then you add them all up (in this case you would be subtracting because of the negative signs).

You now have -m-4-21+3m = 2m-25 which should be your answer. 

Answer 2

When you are told to "combine like terms," you are asked to add all the same variables, then to add all the constants ("free numbers"). This is a process we use to simplify equations. 

To start, look at what's in the parentheses. -(m+4) This says, "the opposite value of m+4" or "-1 times (m+4)

Solve that (using the distributive property): -(m+4)= -m-4

The next part says -3(7-m) which says, "negative 3 times (7-m)".

Solve that using the distributive property: -3(7-m)= -21+3m (Remember that a negative # times a negative # equals a positive #)

Now your new equation says: -m-4-21+3m 

Now, combine like terms, meaning, add the variables (m's): -m+3m= 2m

Then combine the constants (free numbers) -4-21= -25

New equation should say: 2m-25. This is your answer. 

Just remember, when you need to "combine like terms," you're taking the variables (letters) and adding them together. Then add the constants (free numbers) together. 

Answer 3

Work with the parenthesis first: -(m+4)=-m-4 and -3(7-m)= -21+3m, then combine the like terms, 

-m-4-21+3m= 2m-25 this will be your final answer