Question

what will be the simplified expression if we combine like terms in $-7x + 5 + (-3x)$?

Explanation:

Step1: Identify like terms

The like terms in the expression \(-7x + 5 + (-3x)\) are \(-7x\) and \(-3x\) (since they both have the variable \(x\) raised to the first power), and the constant term is \(5\).

Step2: Combine like terms

To combine \(-7x\) and \(-3x\), we add their coefficients. The coefficient of \(-7x\) is \(-7\) and the coefficient of \(-3x\) is \(-3\). So, \(-7x + (-3x)=(-7 - 3)x=-10x\). The constant term \(5\) remains as it is.

Step3: Write the simplified expression

After combining like terms, the simplified expression is \(-10x + 5\).

Answer:

\(-10x + 5\)