Expanding the Square of a Binomial: (6x - 7)²
In mathematics, the square of a binomial is a common expression that can be simplified using the FOIL method. This article will guide you through the process of expanding the expression (6x - 7)².
Understanding the FOIL Method
The FOIL method stands for First, Outer, Inner, Last. It's a mnemonic device used to remember the steps for multiplying two binomials:
- 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.
Expanding (6x - 7)²
Let's apply the FOIL method to expand the given expression:
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Rewrite the expression: (6x - 7)² = (6x - 7)(6x - 7)
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First: (6x)(6x) = 36x²
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Outer: (6x)(-7) = -42x
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Inner: (-7)(6x) = -42x
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Last: (-7)(-7) = 49
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Combine the terms: 36x² - 42x - 42x + 49
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Simplify: 36x² - 84x + 49
Final Result
Therefore, the expanded form of (6x - 7)² is 36x² - 84x + 49.