Question

simplify the following expression.
$12x^2 - 2 + 5x - 8x^2 - 7$

Explanation:

Step1: Combine like terms for \(x^2\)

We have \(12x^2\) and \(-8x^2\). Combining them gives \(12x^2 - 8x^2 = (12 - 8)x^2 = 4x^2\).

Step2: Combine constant terms

We have \(-2\) and \(-7\). Combining them gives \(-2 - 7 = -9\).

Step3: The term with \(x\) remains as is

The term \(5x\) doesn't have any like terms to combine with, so it stays \(5x\).

Step4: Combine all simplified terms

Putting it all together, we get \(4x^2 + 5x - 9\).

Answer:

\(4x^2 + 5x - 9\)