What is the simplified form of 9b - 2 + 3b?

• A. 12b - 2
• B. 6b - 2
• C. 3b - 2
• D. 10b + 2

Answer: (A)

To simplify the expression 9b - 2 + 3b, the key step is to combine like terms. The terms containing the variable b are 9b and 3b. When you add these together, you perform the operation:

9b + 3b = 12b.

This gives you 12b as the combined coefficient for the variable b. Next, you have the constant term, which is -2.

When you combine these results, you get:

12b - 2.

So, the simplified form is indeed 12b - 2, which matches the provided answer. Understanding how to identify and combine like terms is crucial in algebra, as it allows for simplification and easier manipulation of expressions.