Expanding the Square: (2x + 3y)2
This article will walk you through the process of expanding the expression (2x + 3y)2. This is a common algebra problem that involves understanding the concept of squaring a binomial.
Understanding the Concept
The expression (2x + 3y)2 means multiplying the binomial (2x + 3y) by itself. In other words, we're expanding:
(2x + 3y)2 = (2x + 3y) * (2x + 3y)
Applying the FOIL Method
To expand the expression, we can use the FOIL method:
- First: Multiply the first terms of each binomial (2x * 2x = 4x2)
- Outer: Multiply the outer terms of the binomials (2x * 3y = 6xy)
- Inner: Multiply the inner terms of the binomials (3y * 2x = 6xy)
- Last: Multiply the last terms of each binomial (3y * 3y = 9y2)
Combining Like Terms
After applying FOIL, we have:
4x2 + 6xy + 6xy + 9y2
Now, we combine the like terms:
4x2 + 12xy + 9y2
Conclusion
Therefore, the expanded form of (2x + 3y)2 is 4x2 + 12xy + 9y2. Remember that understanding the FOIL method and combining like terms are crucial skills for successfully expanding binomials.