Question

Can someone help me simplify
3a2 + 14a2 + a.
I am aware that the answer is 17a2 + a, but I don't understand WHY it is that answer.
I've added 3a2 + 14a2 and I get that 3 x3 is 9.
If I do 14 x14 I get 196 and if I add that to 9 its 205.
So 17a2 + a may be the right answer but it doesn't make sense because its 289 when multiplied.
Terribly confused.

Answer 1

Okay so this is your question right:

\[3a^2 + 14a^2 + a\]

Answer 2

Yes, and the answer is \[17a2 +a\] but I don't get why.

Answer 3

Like I need the step by step to understand why its that answer

Answer 4

Okay. So basically we know that \[3a^2\] and \[14a^2\] are the same type of variable. Okay?

Answer 5

Right

Answer 6

So when there are two types of variables that are alike we are aloud to add them together.

Answer 7

So \[14a^2 + 3a^2 = 17a^2\]

Answer 8

And then we just have \[a\] left.

Answer 9

So it would be \[17a^2 + a\]

Answer 10

Do you understand?

Answer 11

So I'd do 3 + 14 basically?

ooh and add it by one?

Answer 12

Yeah! :)

Answer 13

Good job!

Answer 14

Hope this helped! Have a great day!

Also a medal would be much appreciated! Just click best response next to my answer. Thank You!

@Atsie

Answer 15

oooh wow. I'm so over analytical! Thank you! And will medal no worries :)

Answer 16

No problem!