Expanding (a + 3)(a + 3)
The expression (a + 3)(a + 3) represents the multiplication of two identical binomials. To find the answer, we can use the FOIL method, which stands for:
- 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.
Let's apply this to our expression:
F: a * a = a² O: a * 3 = 3a I: 3 * a = 3a L: 3 * 3 = 9
Now, we add all the terms together: a² + 3a + 3a + 9
Finally, we combine the like terms:
a² + 6a + 9
Therefore, the expanded form of (a + 3)(a + 3) is a² + 6a + 9.
Note: (a + 3)(a + 3) is also equivalent to (a + 3)². This form highlights that the expression is a perfect square trinomial, which is a trinomial resulting from squaring a binomial.