Problem 55 - Introductory Algebra for College Students

Question

Simplify each algebraic expression. $$2 x+5+7 x-4$$

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The simplified form of the expression is \(9x + 1\).

Step 1: Identify the like terms

In the expression \(2x + 5 + 7x - 4\), the like terms are those that involve the same variable, in this case, 'x'. So, the like terms are \(2x\) and \(7x\). The constants \(5\) and \(-4\) can also be grouped together as they are both constants without variables.

Step 2: Combine like terms

Combine the terms that involve 'x'. This gives \(2x + 7x = 9x\). Then combine the constant terms, which gives \(5 - 4 = 1\).

Step 3: Write final simplified expression

Now, we can add the results together which gives us the simplified expression: \(9x + 1\).