Question

Which expressions are equivalent to the expression 3x2−5a3+2y4?

Select all that apply.

2y4−5a3+3x2, 2y4+3x2−5a3, 3x2−2y4+5a3, or 3x2+2y4−5a3

Answer 1

The first two answers and the last one are correct.

Explanation:

In order to check if the expressions are equivalent, look at the number in front (coefficient) and its sign (positive/plus or negative/minus), the letter (variable) and its exponent.

In the question the 3x² is a (positive or plus) +3x²

The 5a³ is a (negative or minus) -5a³

The 2y^4 is also (positive or plus).

All of the signs in the answers are the same as the question (as well as the number, letter, exponent) EXCEPT for the third answer has a different sign. It has NEGATIVE 2y^4 and POSITIVE 5a³ which are wrong.

The terms can be rearranged, but they MUST keep their positive or negative signs with them, and keep them the same sign as the original question.