(a-3).jpeg "(a+8)(a-3)")
Expanding the Expression (a + 8)(a - 3)
This article will guide you through expanding the expression (a + 8)(a - 3), using the FOIL method.
Understanding the FOIL Method
FOIL stands for First, Outer, Inner, Last, and it's a mnemonic device to help 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.
Applying FOIL to (a + 8)(a - 3)
First: (a) * (a) = a² Outer: (a) * (-3) = -3a Inner: (8) * (a) = 8a Last: (8) * (-3) = -24
Now, combine all the terms:
a² - 3a + 8a - 24
Simplifying the Expression
Finally, combine the like terms:
a² + 5a - 24
Therefore, the expanded form of (a + 8)(a - 3) is a² + 5a - 24.
Summary
By using the FOIL method, we successfully expanded the expression (a + 8)(a - 3) into its simplified form, a² + 5a - 24. This method provides a systematic approach for multiplying binomials and helps avoid errors.