Chapter 1.7, Problem 55P

Write a word phrase for each expression. Then simplify each expression.

$\frac{1}{2}(4m-8)$

To determine

To simplify: Write a word phrase for $\frac{1}{2}(4m-8)$ and simplify the expression

Answer to Problem 55P

One-half times the difference between four times m and 8

Simplified expression is $2m-4$

Explanation of Solution

Given:

  $\frac{1}{2}(4m-8)$

Calculation:

The word phrase for $\frac{1}{2}(4m-8)$ is one-half times the difference between four times m and 8.

It can be further simplified as

  $\begin{array}{l}\frac{1}{2}(4m-8)\\ =\left(\frac{1}{2}\times 4m\right)-\left(\frac{1}{2}\times 8\right)[Byusingdistributiveproperty]\\ =2m-4\end{array}$