Problem 52

Question

Simplify each algebraic expression. $$-9 a+(-13 a)$$

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
The simplified form of the given algebraic expression \(-9 a + (-13 a)\) is \(-22a\).
1Step 1: Identify Like Terms
The given algebraic expression is \(-9a + (-13a)\). Here, \(-9a\) and \(-13a\) are the 'like terms' because they both contain the same variable \(a\) with the same power of 1.
2Step 2: Combine Like Terms
Next, add the numerical coefficients of the like terms together. In this case, the coefficient of \(a\) in \(-9a\) is -9 and in \(-13a\) is -13. So, we add \(-9\) and \(-13\) which equals \(-22\). Thus, the combined term is \(-22a\).
3Step 3: Write the Simplified Expression
We have successfully combined the like terms. The simplified expression is \(-22a\).