Final answer:
To simplify the expression 2a - 4b + 7 + 8a + 6b - 2, combine like terms by adding or subtracting the coefficients of the same variables. The simplified expression is 10a + 2b + 5.
Step-by-step explanation:
To simplify the expression 2a - 4b + 7 + 8a + 6b - 2, we can combine like terms by adding or subtracting the coefficients of the same variables.
Combining like terms:
- Combine the coefficients of a: 2a + 8a = 10a
- Combine the coefficients of b: -4b + 6b = 2b
- Combine the constant terms: 7 - 2 = 5
Putting it all together, the simplified expression is 10a + 2b + 5, so the correct answer is b. 10a + 2b + 5.