Expanding (2a-7)(2a-7)
This expression represents the product of two identical binomials: (2a-7). To find the answer, we can use the FOIL method, which stands for First, Outer, Inner, Last.
Here's how it works:
- First: Multiply the first terms of each binomial: (2a) * (2a) = 4a²
- Outer: Multiply the outer terms of the binomials: (2a) * (-7) = -14a
- Inner: Multiply the inner terms of the binomials: (-7) * (2a) = -14a
- Last: Multiply the last terms of each binomial: (-7) * (-7) = 49
Now, combine the results and simplify:
4a² - 14a - 14a + 49 = 4a² - 28a + 49
Therefore, the expanded form of (2a-7)(2a-7) is 4a² - 28a + 49.
Note: This expression is also known as the square of a binomial. The general formula for squaring a binomial is:
(a + b)² = a² + 2ab + b²
In this case, a = 2a and b = -7. You can use this formula to verify our answer.