Simplifying the Expression: (2x-1)^2 - 9x^2
This article will guide you through simplifying the algebraic expression (2x-1)^2 - 9x^2. We'll break down the steps to arrive at the simplest form of this expression.
Understanding the Expression
The expression involves squaring a binomial (2x-1) and subtracting a term with a squared variable (9x^2). To simplify this, we'll need to use the following:
- Expanding Binomials: The square of a binomial can be expanded using the formula: (a - b)^2 = a^2 - 2ab + b^2
- Combining Like Terms: Terms with the same variable and exponent can be added or subtracted.
Step-by-Step Simplification
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Expand the binomial:
- Applying the formula to (2x-1)^2, we get: (2x)^2 - 2(2x)(1) + (1)^2 = 4x^2 - 4x + 1
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Rewrite the expression:
- Now our expression becomes: 4x^2 - 4x + 1 - 9x^2
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Combine like terms:
- Combine the x^2 terms: (4x^2 - 9x^2) = -5x^2
- The remaining terms are already simplified.
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Simplified expression:
- The final simplified expression is: -5x^2 - 4x + 1
Conclusion
Therefore, the simplified form of the expression (2x-1)^2 - 9x^2 is -5x^2 - 4x + 1. This process demonstrates how to apply algebraic rules to simplify expressions involving binomials and squared variables.