Question

Simplify this expression.
3 + 2m -1 + 5m + 12
[?]m + [ ]

Answer 1

7(m + 2)

Explanation:

1) Add the numbers

• 3 + 2m-1 + 5m + 12
• 14 + 2m + 5m

2) Combine like terms

• 14 + 2m + 5m
• 14 + 7m

3) Rearrange terms

• 14 + 7m
• 7m + 14

4) Common factor

- Factor by grouping

• 3 + 2m - 1+ 5m + 12
• 7m + 14

- Factor by grouping

• 7m + 14
• 7(m + 2)

⇒ 3 + 2m - 1 + 5m + 12

⇒ 7(m + 2)

Solution:

• 7(m + 2)