2a³ + 3a³ + 6a²b + 6ab² = 5a³ + 12a²b²

Question 17 of 27beginner🔍 AnalyzeTrue / False2 marks

$2a^3 + 3a^3 + 6a^2b + 6ab^2 = 5a^3 + 12a^2b^2$

Correct Answer

False. The correct simplification is $2a^3 + 3a^3 + 6a^2b + 6ab^2 = 5a^3 + 6a^2b + 6ab^2$ . Only $2a^3$ and $3a^3$ are like terms that can be combined. The terms $6a^2b$ and $6ab^2$ are unlike terms and cannot be combined.

Exercise: Mind the Mistake, Mend the Mistake | Q: 9 | (Page Page 15)

For More Understanding

Explanation

The chapter explains that like terms have identical variable parts. $2a^3$ and $3a^3$ are like terms (both have $a^3$ ). But $6a^2b$ and $6ab^2$ are unlike terms ( $a^2b \neq ab^2$ ) and cannot be combined.

Solution Steps

Group like terms: $(2a^3 + 3a^3) + 6a^2b + 6ab^2$
Combine like terms: $5a^3 + 6a^2b + 6ab^2$
$6a^2b$ and $6ab^2$ are unlike — cannot combine

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