Add or subtract, as indicated. 5/12x^2y - 11/6xy

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the terms involved: $\frac{5}{12}{x}^{2}y$ and $\frac{11}{6}xy$.
2. Notice that the terms are not like terms because they have different exponents for $x$.
3. To combine these terms, they must have the same variables raised to the same powers. Here, $x^{2}y$ and $xy$ are different.
4. Since the terms are not like terms, they cannot be directly added or subtracted.
5. The expression remains as $\frac{5}{12}{x}^{2}y-\frac{11}{6}xy$ because no further simplification is possible.

Key Concepts

Like Terms

In algebra, like terms are terms that have the same variable components raised to the same powers. For example, in the expression 5/12x^2y and -11/6xy, the first term has x squared and y, while the second term has x to the first power and y. To combine or simplify expressions, it is essential to identify and operate only on like terms.

Common Denominator

When adding or subtracting fractions, a common denominator is necessary to combine them effectively. The common denominator is the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators involved. In the given expression, the denominators are 12 and 6, and finding the common denominator allows for the proper addition or subtraction of the fractions.

Simplifying Expressions

Simplifying expressions involves combining like terms and reducing fractions to their simplest form. This process often includes factoring, canceling common factors, and ensuring that the expression is presented in the most concise way possible. In the context of the question, simplifying the result after performing the addition or subtraction is crucial for clarity and accuracy.