Easy Algebra Step-by-Step

92 Easy Algebra Step-by-Step

Subtraction of Polynomials

To subtract two polynomials, add the opposite of the second polynomial.

You can accomplish subtraction of polynomials by enclosing both poly-

nomials in parentheses and then placing a minus symbol between them.

Of course, make sure that the minus symbol precedes the polynomial that is

being subtracted.

Problem Perform the indicated subtraction.

a. ()^22 ))) (()(((

b. ()^32 ))))) (((()^3

Solution

a. ()^22 ))) (()(((

Step 1. Remove parentheses.

()^9 xx^266666 x+^22 ()^77 xx^253555

= 96 xx^22 − 66 ++ 2727 ++ xx++ 535 −

Step 2. Systematically combine matching like terms and indicate addition or

subtraction of unlike terms.

= 16 xx^2 − − 1

Step 3. Review the main results.

96 xx^22662727 xx 535 16 xx^21

()^92

xx^266666 x+ 2

()^753

7 xx^2555

= 9 + 22 + 55 = 16 x −

b. ()^32 ))))) (((()^3

Step 1. Remove parentheses.

()^48

xx^3233333 x^2 −x+ 8

()^8210

888 xx^33 + x

= 43 xx^32 +++ 33 −+xx+ 8888 −^3 − 21 x+ 0

P

Be careful with signs! Sign

errors are common mistakes for

beginning algebra students.