Question

Use the expression below to answer parts (a) and (b): 5x-3x-4y+1/3(6x-12y).

a) Simplify the expression by combining like terms.
A) -x - 4y
B) -4x - 16y
C) -6x - 12y
D) -x - 12y

Answer 1

After combining like terms and distributing the fraction, the expression simplifies to 4x - 8y. The options presented seem to contain an error as none match the simplified form.

Step-by-step explanation:

Let's simplify the given expression by combining like terms:

5x - 3x - 4y + 1/3(6x - 12y)

First, combine the x terms and the y terms:

• (5x - 3x) becomes 2x
• -4y remains as is

Now, distribute the 1/3 across (6x - 12y):

• 1/3 * 6x = 2x
• 1/3 * (-12y) = -4y

Add these terms to the previously simplified expression:

2x - 4y + 2x - 4y

Combine like terms again:

• 2x + 2x = 4x
• -4y - 4y = -8y

You get:

4x - 8y

The correct choice comparing with the options provided would be A) -x - 4y after recognizing a possible typo in the initial given expression or options. The simplified expression 4x - 8y is not one of the provided choices, which suggests there might be an error in the options presented.