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We begin by addressing the parenthesis:
Remember that:
When we multiply a positive number by a negative number, the result will be negative.
When we multiply a negative number by a negative number, the result will be positive.
Hence we obtain the following:
We then multiply and change the sign according to the rules:
Next we join together the x coefficients:
We also join together the y coefficients:
Finally we obtain:
\( 100-(5+55)= \)
Remember the sign rules: negative × negative = positive! So -3 × (-7y) = +21y. This is why we get +21y instead of -21y in our final expression.
Only combine like terms - terms with the same variable and exponent. Here, combine all x terms together (54x - 12x) and all y terms together (38y + 21y).
Write out each step clearly! Show -3(4x-7y) = -3×4x + (-3)×(-7y) = -12x + 21y. Taking your time with signs prevents most errors.
Yes! You can distribute to either term first, but make sure you distribute to both terms. The final result will be the same as long as you follow the sign rules correctly.
Substitute simple values for x and y into both the original expression and your simplified answer. If they give the same result, you're correct! For example, try x=1, y=1.
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