Sometimes before we add or subtract to simplify the polynomial, we have to multiply. When this happens we use the distributive property.

Let's look at an example of simplifying with and without the distributive property.

Example 1. 3(2x - 4y)

the expression 2x minus 4y is repeated 3 times with the x-terms in squares and the y-terms in circles

Another way to write this with
the Distributive Property would be
3(2x - 4y) the expression 3 times the quantity 2x minus 4y is shown with arrows drawn from 3 to 2x and 3 to 4y

Which way was simpler to use?

Using what you have learned so far, simplify each of the following polynomials by combining like terms. Click the link below each problem to check your work.

1. 3x – 4y – 2x + 8y + 5x

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Check the Answer

6x + 4y Close Pop Up

2. 4(2x – 9y)

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Check the Answer

8x - 36y Close Pop Up

3. 2(5a – 3b + 4c)

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Check the Answer

10a - 6b + 8c Close Pop Up

4. x2 – 4x – 6 + 5x2 + 3x4 – 7x2

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Check the Answer

3x4 - x2 - 4x - 6 Close Pop Up

Hey, this is not so bad!