Question

7.2 adding & subtracting polynomials quiz

why is it important to combine like terms when adding or subtracting polynomials?

to make the exponent larger
to simplify the expression
to make the expression longer
to change the variables

Explanation:

Define like terms in polynomials

Using the Combining Like Terms knowledge point
Like terms are terms that have the exact same variables raised to the exact same exponents.

Purpose of combining like terms

Using the Simplifying Polynomials knowledge point
Combining like terms groups identical variable parts by adding or subtracting their coefficients, reducing the number of terms to write the expression in its most compact, readable, and standard form.

Evaluate the given options

• To make the exponent larger: Incorrect. Combining like terms only changes coefficients, not exponents.
• To simplify the expression: Correct. Reducing the number of terms simplifies the polynomial.
• To make the expression longer: Incorrect. Combining terms makes the expression shorter.
• To change the variables: Incorrect. The variables and their powers remain unchanged.

Answer:

• To make the exponent larger
• To simplify the expression (Correct answer)
• To make the expression longer
• To change the variables