Subtracting Polynomials
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Objective
I can subtract polynomials by combining like terms.
Part 1 of 3
Key concepts
3 concepts
- 1
When subtracting polynomials, the key principle is to add the opposite of the polynomial being subtracted.
- 2
To subtract polynomials, you must first distribute the negative sign to every term in the second polynomial, which inverts each term's sign.
- 3
After distributing the negative sign, the next step is to combine like terms, which are terms that have the same variable raised to the same exponent.
Part 2 of 3
Practice
3 questions
When subtracting one polynomial from another, what is the crucial first step involving the polynomial being subtracted, and why is it important?
Identify all pairs of like terms in the following expression: 9y³ + 4y² - 6y + 12 - 5y² + 2y - 7.
Part 3 of 3
Exit ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Subtract (2x² - 4x + 1) from (5x² + 3x - 7). Show all steps, including distributing the negative sign and combining like terms.”
Sample answer included in the free materials
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