Expanding and Simplifying (5a + 2)(a + 4)
This article will guide you through the process of expanding and simplifying the expression (5a + 2)(a + 4) to get the standard form of a polynomial.
Understanding the Process
The expression is in the form of a product of two binomials. To expand it, we'll use the FOIL method:
- First: Multiply the first terms of each binomial.
- Outer: Multiply the outer terms of the binomials.
- Inner: Multiply the inner terms of the binomials.
- Last: Multiply the last terms of each binomial.
Applying the FOIL Method
- First: (5a) * (a) = 5a²
- Outer: (5a) * (4) = 20a
- Inner: (2) * (a) = 2a
- Last: (2) * (4) = 8
Now, we have: 5a² + 20a + 2a + 8
Simplifying the Expression
Finally, combine the like terms (the terms with 'a'):
5a² + 20a + 2a + 8 = 5a² + 22a + 8
Conclusion
Therefore, the standard form of the expression (5a + 2)(a + 4) is 5a² + 22a + 8. This process illustrates how to expand and simplify algebraic expressions involving binomials.