How do you simplify #4( 5x + 9) - 2( x - 4)#?

2 Answers

The simplified expression is #18x + 44#.

Explanation:

Follow the Order of Operations. First, we will distribute the #4# and the #-2#. Then combine the like terms.

#4(5x + 9) - 2(x - 4)#
#20x + 36 - 2x + 8#
#20x - 2x + 36 + 8#
#18x + 44#

Nov 19, 2016

#18x + 44#

Explanation:

Step 1) Expand the terms within each parenthesis:

#(4*5x) + (4*9) - (2*x) - (2*-4) =>#

#20x + 36 - 2x + 8# (minus a minus 8 or - - 8 is +8)

Step 2) Combine like terms:

#20x - 2x + 36 + 8 =>#

#(20 - 2)x + 44 =>#

#18x + 44#