What is the result of combining the terms -5x + 3 + 8x - 4?

• A. 5x - 1
• B. 3x + 1
• C. 3x - 1
• D. 3x + 5

Answer: (C)

To find the result of combining the terms -5x + 3 + 8x - 4, you start by identifying and grouping the like terms. Like terms are those that have the same variable raised to the same power.

First, combine the terms with the variable (x):

• The terms involving (x) are -5x and 8x.

• When you combine these, you add their coefficients:

(-5 + 8 = 3).

• This gives you (3x).

Next, combine the constant terms:

• The constant terms are 3 and -4.

• When you combine these, you add them:

(3 - 4 = -1).

• This results in (-1).

Now, putting both parts together, you have (3x) from the variable terms and (-1) from the constant terms. Thus, when you combine everything, the simplified expression is (3x - 1).

This matches with the correct answer choice, highlighting that the combination of like terms leads to the final result. Understanding how to identify, group, and combine like terms is crucial in algebra for simplifying expressions efficiently.