Question

simplify the expression:
4.6b + -10.1b + -4.2b + -8.7b

Explanation:

Step1: Combine like terms

Since all terms have the variable \( b \), we can add the coefficients. The expression is \( 4.6b - 10.1b - 4.2b - 8.7b \) (because \( + - \) is equivalent to \( - \)).
First, add the coefficients: \( 4.6 - 10.1 - 4.2 - 8.7 \).

Step2: Calculate the sum of coefficients

Calculate step by step:
\( 4.6 - 10.1 = -5.5 \)
\( -5.5 - 4.2 = -9.7 \)
\( -9.7 - 8.7 = -18.4 \)
So the simplified expression is \( -18.4b \).

Answer:

\( -18.4b \)