Question

subtract -2x ^2 - 5x + 1 from -4x ^2 + 5x - 1

Answer 1

Subtract like terms. Remember, when you subtract a negative number, it's the same as adding a positive number.

Answer 2

is that correct?

Answer 3

No, that is not correct. So, start by determining -4x^2 - (-2x^2). The coefficients subtracted and the variable stays the same. So, what is really being asked is what is -4 - (-2)? Again, when you subtract a negative number, it is the same as adding a positive number.

Answer 4

oh so is it -2x^2 ?

Answer 5

That is a good start. You did the first term, now try the rest of it.

Answer 6

Ok, is the final answer -2x^2+10 ?

Answer 7

no.

Answer 8

can you explain why not?

Answer 9

You have to do all the terms.

Answer 10

I did, for -1 + 1 I got 0

Answer 11

You're having a problem with -1 - 1. Why are you adding?

Answer 12

Oh, I thought you leave the sign if it already was a positive

Answer 13

term-by-term

Answer 14

oh ok, so the final answer is -2x^2+10-2 ?

Answer 15

yes! You've got it now.

Answer 16

thank you so much