What is 2x-4x-8x

Question

I need help with this question.

Answer 1

Hi Bob. 

 

Since all of these are the same variable (x), you can add the coefficients together. The coefficient is the number before the 'x'. Therefore you can add/subtract them freely without any interruption.

 

2x-4x-8x

 

2 - 4 - 8

 

The answer is -10x.

 

This would not apply to expressions with different variables (squared or exponents). 

 

Have a great day Bob!

 

-Ameenah

Answer 2

Hi Bob, this is an expression, not an equation. As such, all you can do is combine like terms. Here the three terms have the same variable, therefore, just add them together.

 

2x - 4x - 8x combined is -10x

 

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