Question

question
which expression is equivalent to 3.1b - 7.3 + 8.2b - 5.3?

answer
11.3b - 2 \t\t\t 11.3b - 12.6
-5.1b - 2 \t\t\t -5.1b - 12.6

Explanation:

Step1: Combine like terms for \(b\)

We have \(3.1b\) and \(8.2b\). To combine them, we add their coefficients: \(3.1 + 8.2 = 11.3\). So the combined term for \(b\) is \(11.3b\).

Step2: Combine constant terms

We have \(-7.3\) and \(-5.3\). To combine them, we add these constants: \(-7.3+(-5.3)=-7.3 - 5.3=-12.6\).

Step3: Combine the results

Combining the results from Step 1 and Step 2, we get \(11.3b-12.6\).

Answer:

\(11.3b - 12.6\) (the option with "11.3b - 12.6")