Expanding the Trinomial (2x + 6)(2x + 8)
This article will guide you through expanding the trinomial (2x + 6)(2x + 8).
Understanding Trinomials
A trinomial is a polynomial with three terms. To expand this expression, we can use the FOIL method:
- First: Multiply the first terms of each binomial.
- Outer: Multiply the outer terms of each binomial.
- Inner: Multiply the inner terms of each binomial.
- Last: Multiply the last terms of each binomial.
Expanding the Expression
Let's apply the FOIL method to (2x + 6)(2x + 8):
- First: (2x) * (2x) = 4x²
- Outer: (2x) * (8) = 16x
- Inner: (6) * (2x) = 12x
- Last: (6) * (8) = 48
Now, we combine the terms:
4x² + 16x + 12x + 48
Finally, we simplify by combining the like terms:
4x² + 28x + 48
Conclusion
Therefore, the expanded form of the trinomial (2x + 6)(2x + 8) is 4x² + 28x + 48. The FOIL method provides a systematic way to expand binomials and is a valuable tool in algebra.