What is the result of combining the terms 4x^3 + 2x^3?

• A. 4x^2
• B. 6x^3
• C. 2x^3
• D. 8x^3

Answer: (B)

To combine the terms 4x^3 and 2x^3, you add the coefficients of the like terms. In this case, both terms have the same variable raised to the same power, which makes them "like terms."

You start with the coefficients: 4 and 2. When you add these together, you calculate 4 + 2, which equals 6. Since the variable and its exponent remain unchanged during this process, the resulting term keeps the same variable (x) raised to the same power (3). Thus, the simplified expression you obtain after combining the terms is 6x^3.

This method of combining coefficients is fundamental in algebra, as it allows for the simplification of expressions by consolidating similar terms, making calculations and further operations easier to manage.