Question

What is (a squared - 11) + (3a squared - 4a + 6)

Answer 1

To simplify the expression \((a^2 - 11) + (3a^2 - 4a + 6)\), we will combine like terms.

1. First, let's write out the expression:
\[
a^2 - 11 + 3a^2 - 4a + 6
\]

2. Now, group the like terms:
- For \(a^2\): \(a^2 + 3a^2\)
- For \(a\): \(-4a\) (there is no other \(a\) term)
- For constant terms: \(-11 + 6\)

3. Now, add them together:
- Combine \(a^2\) terms:
\[
a^2 + 3a^2 = 4a^2
\]
- The \(a\) term remains:
\[
-4a
\]
- Combine the constant terms:
\[
-11 + 6 = -5
\]

4. Putting it all together, we have:
\[
4a^2 - 4a - 5
\]

So, the simplified expression is:
\[
\boxed{4a^2 - 4a - 5}
\]