Expanding the Expression (a + 2b)(4a + b)
This article will guide you through the process of expanding the algebraic expression (a + 2b)(4a + b). We will use the FOIL method, a helpful mnemonic for multiplying binomials.
FOIL stands for First, Outer, Inner, Last, which refers to the order in which we multiply the terms:
- 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 FOIL to (a + 2b)(4a + b):
- First: (a)(4a) = 4a²
- Outer: (a)(b) = ab
- Inner: (2b)(4a) = 8ab
- Last: (2b)(b) = 2b²
Combining the terms:
Now we have: 4a² + ab + 8ab + 2b²
Finally, we combine the like terms:
4a² + 9ab + 2b²
Therefore, the expanded form of (a + 2b)(4a + b) is 4a² + 9ab + 2b².