(a+b)2+(a-b)2 Simplify

2 min read Jun 16, 2024
(a+b)2+(a-b)2 Simplify

Simplifying the Expression (a + b)² + (a - b)²

This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the algebraic expression (a + b)² + (a - b)². We will use the FOIL method and some algebraic rules to achieve the simplified form.

Understanding the Expression

The expression involves squaring two binomials, (a + b) and (a - b). To simplify, we need to expand these squares using 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.

Expanding the Squares

Let's expand each square:

(a + b)² = (a + b)(a + b) = a² + ab + ab + b² = a² + 2ab + b²

(a - b)² = (a - b)(a - b) = a² - ab - ab + b² = a² - 2ab + b²

Combining the Expanded Terms

Now, let's substitute these expanded forms back into the original expression:

**(a + b)² + (a - b)² = (a² + 2ab + b²) + (a² - 2ab + b²) **

Simplifying the Expression

Finally, we combine like terms:

  • a² + a² = 2a²
  • 2ab - 2ab = 0
  • b² + b² = 2b²

Therefore, the simplified form of the expression is: 2a² + 2b²

Conclusion

By using the FOIL method and combining like terms, we have successfully simplified the expression (a + b)² + (a - b)² to 2a² + 2b². This simplification can be useful for various algebraic manipulations and problem-solving in mathematics.

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