Solve the Linear Equation: 5+2a+4 Step-by-Step

Simplifying Algebraic Expressions with Like Terms

5+2a+4= 5+2a+4=

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:00 Solution
00:03 Use the commutative law and arrange the exercise in order to make it easier to solve
00:09 Solve according to the order of operations, solving from left to right
00:18 Each time solve the leftmost operation and then continue
00:25 Here is the solution

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

5+2a+4= 5+2a+4=

2

Step-by-step solution

Given that in the exercise there is only one addition operation, the substitution property can be used:

5+4+2a= 5+4+2a=

We solve the exercise from left to right:

5+4=9 5+4=9

Now we obtain:

2a+9 2a+9

3

Final Answer

2a+9 2a+9

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Rule: Combine constant terms and variable terms separately first
  • Technique: Group constants together: 5 + 4 = 9, then write 2a + 9
  • Check: Verify by expanding back: 2a + 9 has same terms as original ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Trying to combine variable terms with constants
    Don't add 2a + 5 + 4 = 2a + 11! You cannot combine variables with numbers directly. Always group like terms: constants (5 + 4 = 9) stay separate from variables (2a).

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

\( 94+12+6= \)

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why can't I just add all the numbers together including the coefficient?

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The coefficient 2 is attached to the variable a, so 2a 2a means "2 times a". You can only combine like terms - constants with constants, variables with the same variables.

What's the difference between 2a + 9 and 9 + 2a?

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They are exactly the same due to the commutative property! However, it's common practice to write variables first, so 2a+9 2a + 9 is the preferred form.

How do I know which terms are like terms?

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Like terms have the same variable part. Constants (plain numbers) go together, terms with a go together, terms with x go together, etc.

Is this actually solving an equation?

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No, this is simplifying an expression! There's no equals sign with a value to solve for. We're just combining like terms to write it in simplest form.

What if I had 3a + 2a in the expression?

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Then you could combine them! 3a+2a=5a 3a + 2a = 5a because they're like terms. But 2a 2a and constants like 5 and 4 cannot be combined.

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