To simplify the expression $(5a - 4b) + (-3a - 2b)$, follow these steps:

1. Group the like terms:

   • Combine the terms with $a$: $5a + (-3a) = 2a$
   • Combine the terms with $b$: $-4b + (-2b) = -6b$

2. The simplified expression is: $2a - 6b$

Therefore, the expression equivalent to $(5a - 4b) + (-3a - 2b)$ is $2a - 6b$.

Do you need any further details or clarifications?

Here are 5 related questions to expand on this:

1. How do you simplify an expression with more variables?
2. What happens when you subtract algebraic expressions?
3. How would you factor the result $2a - 6b$?
4. What if the coefficients were decimals instead of integers?
5. How do you handle expressions with more complex terms, like squares or cubes?

Tip: Always group and simplify like terms to make expressions easier to manage.