Final answer:
To simplify the expression -23ab - (-2ab), we convert the subtraction of a negative to addition, resulting in -23ab + 2ab, which simplifies to -21ab. This demonstrates the application of algebraic rules of signs.
Step-by-step explanation:
To simplify the expression: –23ab – (–2ab), we'll distribute the negative sign to the terms inside the parentheses. When we distribute a negative sign, we change the signs of the terms inside. So, the expression becomes –23ab + 2ab.
To simplify further, we can combine like terms by adding the coefficients of the terms with the same variables. In this case, the coefficients are –23 and 2, and the variables are a and b. Adding –23 and 2 gives us –21, so the expression simplifies to –21ab.
To simplify the expression – 23ab – (– 2ab), we need to understand how to handle the subtraction of a negative number. Remember, when you subtract a negative number, it’s the same as adding its positive equivalent. The given expression simplifies as follows:
– 23ab – (– 2ab)
= – 23ab + 2ab
= – 21ab
This final expression, – 21ab, is the simplified form of the initial expression. In the process, an understanding of algebraic rules of signs and simplification techniques are applied.