Answer :

We are given the expression
[tex]$$
-8s - 4s.
$$[/tex]

Step 1: Identify Like Terms

Notice that both terms contain the same variable [tex]$s$[/tex]. Since they are like terms, we can combine them by adding their coefficients.

Step 2: Add the Coefficients

The coefficients of [tex]$s$[/tex] are [tex]$-8$[/tex] and [tex]$-4$[/tex]. Add these together:
[tex]$$
-8 + (-4) = -12.
$$[/tex]

Step 3: Write the Simplified Expression

Multiply the common variable [tex]$s$[/tex] by the new coefficient:
[tex]$$
-12s.
$$[/tex]

Thus, the simplified expression is
[tex]$$
-12s.
$$[/tex]