I'm not sure how this one is done because of the fraction but the problem just says "add (-9x+12)+(2x^2+1/2x-14)" and when I try to solve I get the answer 5&1/2x^2-14 but it seems like that is wrong for some reason

Question

mertsj · Answer

$$-9x+12+2x^2+\frac{1}{2}x-14=2x^2+(-9x+\frac{1}{2}x)+(12-14)$$

mertsj · Answer

Did you notice that I grouped the like terms?

anonymous · Answer

yes, I tried that too but failed :(

mertsj · Answer

$$2x^2-\frac{17}{2}x-2$$

anonymous · Answer

how did you get 17 for the numerator?

mertsj · Answer

-9+1/2=-8 1/2 = -17/2

anonymous · Answer

oh duh I see now lol thanks

mertsj · Answer

yw

anonymous · Answer

but I think I am supposed to simplify so would it be the -8 1/2 then right?

anonymous · Answer

yes u have to simplify

mertsj · Answer

It's hard to say what your teacher requires.  In lower grades, the mixed number is considered simple but in algebra and above, the improper fraction is usually considered fine.

anonymous · Answer

sorry lol I know I take patience to try to teach math

mertsj · Answer

Maybe you could put it both ways

anonymous · Answer

well technically both are correct, I will try that, thanks again!

mertsj · Answer

yw