Question

simplify.
$-9c^2 - 8c^2$

Explanation:

Step1: Identify like terms

Both terms have $c^2$, so they are like terms.

Step2: Combine coefficients

Add the numerical coefficients of the like terms:
$-9 - 8 = -17$

Step3: Attach the common variable part

Multiply the combined coefficient by $c^2$:
$-17 \times c^2 = -17c^2$

Answer:

$-17c^2$