ean wrote the following steps to simplify the expression (3x – 4y – x).

Step 1: 3x – x – 4y; using commutative property of addition
Step 2: 3x – (x – 4y); using associative property of addition
Step 3: 3x − (1 – 4)y; using distributive property of addition
Step 4: 3x − (−3)y; simplifying

Which step was incorrect, and what should be the correct step that Jean should use?

Question

ean wrote the following steps to simplify the expression (3x – 4y – x).
 
Step 1: 3x – x – 4y; using commutative property of addition
Step 2: 3x – (x – 4y); using associative property of addition
Step 3: 3x − (1 – 4)y; using distributive property of addition
Step 4: 3x − (−3)y; simplifying
 
Which step was incorrect, and what should be the correct step that Jean should use?

anonymous · Answer

Step 2 was incorrect. Correct step: (3x – x) – 4y; using associative property of addition
Step 1 was incorrect. Correct step: 3x – 4y + x; using commutative property of addition
Step 2 was incorrect. Correct step: 3x + x – 4y; using associative property of addition
Step 1 was incorrect. Correct step: 3x – x + 4y; using commutative property of addition

anonymous · Answer

do u get this

radar · Answer

Not really, but Step 2 is in error as the sign of y is altered,  Step 3. is incorrect as he lost a y, and step 4. is incorrect as they also lost a y.  Step 1. is o.k. as real numbers can be added in any order.  Now another step is needed, combining similar terms, getting 2x-4y.