Question

An algebraic expression has parentheses with unlike terms inside. Explain how to simplify this algebraic expression if a minus sign is in front of the parentheses.

Answer 1

so like -(5x + 7y)?

Answer 2

(a+b)
-1(a+b) distributive property
-a-b

Answer 3

consider that if there is a minus sign in front of the parens, treat it like a (-1), so distribute (-1) through all terms in the parens