SOLUTION: What would be the coefficient in the expression 72 - (-4x)? I am confused if it will be -4 or 4 and why? Could you please explain how you derive the answer?

Algebra ->  Expressions -> SOLUTION: What would be the coefficient in the expression 72 - (-4x)? I am confused if it will be -4 or 4 and why? Could you please explain how you derive the answer?      Log On


   

Question 1129729: What would be the coefficient in the expression 72 - (-4x)?
I am confused if it will be -4 or 4 and why? Could you please explain how you derive the answer?
Found 2 solutions by MathLover1, stanbon:
Answer by MathLover1(20850) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!

72+-+%28-4x%29-> first get rid of parentheses %28-4x%29
in front of parentheses you have a minus sign which means all in parentheses multiply by -1
72+-+1%2A%28-4x%29 -> recall the rule: minus times minus = plus, so you have
72%2B4x and the coefficient in the expression is 4

Answer by stanbon(75887) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
What would be the coefficient in the expression 72 - (-4x)?
-----------------
As written the coefficient of "x" is -4
---
If you simplify the statement you get 72+4x
Now the coefficient of "x" is +4.
-----
Cheers,
Stan H.
----------