Page 79 - Mathematics

Simplification of algebraic expressions
Simplification of algebraic expressions involves combining like terms by adding or
subtracting their coefficients in order to obtain a simple term. It may also involve
multiplying and dividing terms as well as working with fractions and brackets.

Example 5.1 Tanzania Institute of Education

Multiply 5a + 2 – 3 by 4.b c

Solution
(5a + 2 –3b c ) 4×= ( 4 5a + 2 –3b ) c

4 2b +×
= 4 5a× +× 4 (–3c )
= 20a + 8b − 12c
Therefore, 5a + 2 –3b c multiplied by 4 gives 20a + 8 –12 .b c

Example 5.2

Multiply 2x − 3 byy − 2a

Solution
(2 – 3 ) (–2 )x y × a = (2 )(2 ) (2 )(3 )a− x + − a − y

= − 4ax + 6ay

Therefore, when 2 –3x y is multiplied by 2a− , the result is 4ax− + 6.ay

Example 5.3

Re-write 5 (am− + 2n − 2) without brackets.

Mathematics Form One
Solution
− 5 (a m + 2n − 2) = − 5am +− 2n ) (5a−+ ×− ) 2
(5a×
= − 5am − 10an + 10a

Therefore, 5 (a m− + 2n − 2) = − 5am − 10an + 10 .a

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25/10/2024 09:51:21
Mathematics form 1.indd 73
Mathematics form 1.indd 73 25/10/2024 09:51:21