Example

Subtracting 16pq3(7pq3)16pq^3 - (-7pq^3)

To subtract the two like monomials 16pq3(7pq3)16pq^3 - (-7pq^3), first verify that they are like terms. Both terms contain the identical variable part pq3pq^3 (which means p1q3p^1q^3), confirming they are like terms. Next, apply the rule for subtracting a negative number, which is equivalent to adding its opposite: 16(7)=16+7=2316 - (-7) = 16 + 7 = 23. Combine the coefficients while leaving the variable portion unchanged:

16pq3(7pq3)=23pq316pq^3 - (-7pq^3) = 23pq^3

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Updated 2026-04-29

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Ch.5 Polynomials and Polynomial Functions - Intermediate Algebra @ OpenStax

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