Final answer:
The expression 8m - 4w + 7m - 2w simplifies to 15m - 6w by combining like terms. Like terms for m and w are added and subtracted respectively to find the simplified result.
Step-by-step explanation:
To simplify the expression 8m - 4w + 7m - 2w, you combine like terms. The like terms for the variable m are 8m and 7m, and for the variable w, the terms are -4w and -2w. Let's combine these:
Combine 8m and 7m: 8m + 7m = 15m
Combine -4w and -2w: -4w - 2w = -6w
Putting them together, you get 15m - 6w. To eliminate terms where possible in algebra always look for like terms that can be combined through addition or subtraction. After combining terms, it's crucial to check the answer to ensure it's reasonable and correct.
In summary, the simplified expression is 15m - 6w.