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Multiplying out brackets and simplifying

The question is: -3x-(X-4)
I got the answer: -2x-4
But apparently the answer is 2x-4 I just don't understand how it is positive rather the negative, am I just being stupid?!
Original post by miaofcourse
The question is: -3x-(X-4)
I got the answer: -2x-4
But apparently the answer is 2x-4 I just don't understand how it is positive rather the negative, am I just being stupid?!


You and the answer are both wrong. Distribute the -1 into the brackets
−3x−(x−4)=−3x+(−x+4)=−3x−x+4=−4x+4-3x-(x-4)=-3x+(-x+4)=-3x-x+4=-4x+4
(edited 7 years ago)
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miaofcourse
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Original post by RDKGames
You and the answer are both wrong. Distribute the -1 into the brackets
−3x−(x−4)=−3x−x+4=−4x+4=−4(x+1)-3x-(x-4)=-3x-x+4=-4x+4=-4(x+1)


Oh god that's even worse! Thank you so much!!
Edit- I understand how you got this as I originally put this down but was told this was wrong, I knew I should just trust my instinct!
(edited 7 years ago)
Original post by miaofcourse
Edit- I understand how you got this as I originally put this down but was told this was wrong, I knew I should just trust my instinct!


I'm concerned for whoever told you that you were wrong if that's the answer you've got. They shouldn't be saying what's right and wrong if they can't distribute a -1 into 2 terms. :smile:

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