SOLUTION: -2ax-5ax= Having problems with adding and/or subtracting this. What are the rules?

Algebra ->  Polynomials-and-rational-expressions -> SOLUTION: -2ax-5ax= Having problems with adding and/or subtracting this. What are the rules?      Log On


   



Question 2951: -2ax-5ax=
Having problems with adding and/or subtracting this. What are the rules?

Answer by BestTutorEver(3) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Okay, this is actually pretty simple. Negative minus a negative is like adding the two numbers and then keeping them negative. I know it sounds confusing, but I'll give you an example. -3x-10x=? For this, all you do is add the two numbers (3 and 10) and keep it negative. Thus, -13. Now, as long as the variables are the same throughout the entire equation, you just carry them through. Back to my example, -3x-10x would equal -13x. You see? I'll let you solve your problem on your own, but if you're still having trouble, I'll explain further. (HINT: Even if there's two variables, in your case a and x, just carry them both through!)