To determine which example correctly demonstrates polynomial subtraction, let's perform the subtraction of the polynomials step by step.
We start with the expression:
\[
(2x^2 + 6x + 1) - (3x^2 + 3x + 9)
\]
When we distribute the negative sign across the second polynomial, we get:
\[
2x^2 + 6x + 1 - 3x^2 - 3x - 9
\]
Now, we combine like terms:
1. For the \(x^2\) terms: \(2x^2 - 3x^2 = -x^2\)
2. For the \(x\) terms: \(6x - 3x = 3x\)
3. For the constant terms: \(1 - 9 = -8\)
Putting it all together:
\[
-x^2 + 3x - 8
\]
Now let's compare this result with the provided options:
1. **First option:** \(-5x^2 + 3x - 8\) (incorrect)
2. **Second option:** \(x^2 + 3x + 8\) (incorrect)
3. **Third option:** \(5x^2 + 9x + 10\) (incorrect)
4. **Fourth option:** \(-x^2 + 3x - 8\) (correct)
Thus, the correct example that demonstrates polynomial subtraction is:
**\((2x^2 + 6x + 1) - (3x^2 + 3x + 9) = -x^2 + 3x - 8\)**.