how do you simplify expressions by changing subtraction to addition of the opposite and distributing?

Answer 1

To simplify expressions by changing subtraction to addition of the opposite and distributing, follow these steps:

1. Identify the expression that contains subtraction. For example, let's say we have the expression: 5 - 3x.

2. Change the subtraction to addition of the opposite. In this case, we change the subtraction sign to addition and multiply the term after the subtraction sign by -1. So, the expression becomes: 5 + (-3x).

3. Distribute any coefficients that are outside of parentheses. In this case, there are no coefficients outside of parentheses, so we move on to the next step.

4. Simplify the expression by combining like terms. In this case, there are no like terms to combine, so the expression is already simplified.

By changing subtraction to addition of the opposite and distributing, you can simplify expressions and make them easier to work with and understand.