Simplify the expression 5b + 3 - 2b + 6.

• A. 3b + 9
• B. 7b + 3
• C. 3b + 10
• D. 5b + 9

Answer: (A)

To simplify the expression 5b + 3 - 2b + 6, start by identifying and combining the like terms. The terms containing the variable b are 5b and -2b. When you combine these, you perform the operation 5b - 2b, which results in 3b.

Next, combine the constant terms, which are 3 and 6. Adding these together, you get 3 + 6, resulting in 9.

Now, you can combine the simplified variable term with the simplified constant term. Thus, you have 3b from the variable terms and 9 from the constant terms, leading to the final simplified expression of 3b + 9.

This solution illustrates how to effectively combine like terms to achieve a simpler and more compact expression.