Question

simplify: $a^2 + 3a^2$
a. $3a^2$
b. $4a$
c. $4a^2$
d. $a^3$

Explanation:

Step1: Identify like terms

$a^2$ and $3a^2$ are like terms (same variable $a$ with exponent 2).

Step2: Add coefficients

$1a^2 + 3a^2 = (1+3)a^2 = 4a^2$

Answer:

c. $4a^2$