Expanding (2x - y)^2
The expression (2x - y)^2 represents the square of a binomial. To expand it, we can apply the following steps:
Understanding the Concept
The square of a binomial means multiplying the binomial by itself. So, (2x - y)^2 is equivalent to (2x - y) * (2x - y).
Applying the FOIL Method
We can use the FOIL method to expand the expression:
- First: Multiply the first terms of each binomial: (2x) * (2x) = 4x^2
- Outer: Multiply the outer terms of each binomial: (2x) * (-y) = -2xy
- Inner: Multiply the inner terms of each binomial: (-y) * (2x) = -2xy
- Last: Multiply the last terms of each binomial: (-y) * (-y) = y^2
Combining Like Terms
After applying FOIL, we get: 4x^2 - 2xy - 2xy + y^2
Combining the like terms, we get the final expanded form:
4x^2 - 4xy + y^2
Summary
Therefore, the expansion of (2x - y)^2 is 4x^2 - 4xy + y^2. This expansion can be used in various algebraic manipulations and solving equations.