Question

write this expression with the fewest numbe
4 - 2x + 5x

Explanation:

Step1: Combine like terms (-2x and 5x)

To combine the like terms \(-2x\) and \(5x\), we use the distributive property of multiplication over addition (or subtraction), which states that \(ax + bx=(a + b)x\). Here, \(a=-2\) and \(b = 5\), so \(-2x+5x=(-2 + 5)x\).
Calculating \(-2+5\) gives \(3\), so \(-2x + 5x=3x\).

Step2: Rewrite the expression

Now, substitute \(3x\) back into the original expression \(4-2x + 5x\). The expression becomes \(4+3x\) (or \(3x + 4\), since addition is commutative).

Answer:

\(4 + 3x\) (or \(3x+4\))