SOLUTION: Write the polynomial subtraction in vertical form first, then preform the distribution by -1 and rewrite as addition. (6x^3 -5x -4) - (2x^2 - 8x + 3) I dont know if 6x^3 can

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Question 334977: Write the polynomial subtraction in vertical form first, then preform the distribution by -1 and rewrite as addition.
(6x^3 -5x -4) - (2x^2 - 8x + 3)
I dont know if 6x^3 can be lined up with 2x^2 or not. I dont think they can since the powers are not the same. Can you help?
Answer by jim_thompson5910(35256)   (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
No, 6x^3 and 2x^2 are not like terms. So you cannot add them. So it doesn't make sense to stack the two vertically.


(6x^3 -5x -4) - (2x^2 - 8x + 3) ... Start with the given expression

6x^3 -5x -4 -2x^2 + 8x - 3 ... Distribute.

6x^3 +0x^2-5x -4 -2x^2 + 8x - 3 ... Add a 0x^2 term in between the first two terms.


Now stack the first four terms over the last three. 

6x^3+0x^2 -5x -4
    -2x^2 +8x -3


Now simply add the terms that line up. I'll let you do that.
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