The sum rule in the algebra of limits states that if the limit of \\(f(x)\\) as \\(x\\) approaches \\(a\\) is \\(L\\) and the limit of \\(g(x)\\) as \\(x\\) approaches \\(a\\) is \\(M\\), then the limit of \\(f(x) + g(x)\\) as \\(x\\) approaches \\(a\\) is \\(L + M\\).