(ax+b)(cx+d) Formula

4 min read Jun 16, 2024
(ax+b)(cx+d) Formula

Expanding the (ax+b)(cx+d) Formula

The formula (ax+b)(cx+d) is a fundamental concept in algebra that involves expanding two binomials. Understanding this formula is crucial for simplifying expressions, solving equations, and performing various algebraic manipulations.

Understanding the Formula

The formula (ax+b)(cx+d) represents the multiplication of two binomials, where:

  • ax + b and cx + d are the two binomials.
  • a, b, c, and d are constants or coefficients.

To expand the formula, we can use the distributive property, which states that multiplying a sum by a number is the same as multiplying each term of the sum by that number.

Expanding the Formula

Applying the distributive property, we can expand (ax+b)(cx+d) as follows:

  1. Multiply the first term of the first binomial (ax) by each term of the second binomial (cx + d):

    • ax * cx = acx²
    • ax * d = adx
  2. Multiply the second term of the first binomial (b) by each term of the second binomial (cx + d):

    • b * cx = bcx
    • b * d = bd
  3. Combine the resulting terms:

    • acx² + adx + bcx + bd

Therefore, the expanded form of (ax+b)(cx+d) is:

(ax+b)(cx+d) = acx² + adx + bcx + bd

Applications of the Formula

The formula (ax+b)(cx+d) has numerous applications in algebra, including:

  • Factoring quadratic expressions: By recognizing the expanded form, we can factor quadratic expressions into two binomials.
  • Solving quadratic equations: Using the formula, we can rewrite quadratic equations in a form that allows us to find their solutions.
  • Simplifying complex expressions: Expanding the formula can help simplify expressions involving binomials.
  • Graphing quadratic functions: The expanded form provides insight into the shape and key features of quadratic functions.

Example

Let's expand the expression (2x + 3)(4x - 1) using the formula:

  1. Multiply the first terms: 2x * 4x = 8x²
  2. Multiply the outer terms: 2x * -1 = -2x
  3. Multiply the inner terms: 3 * 4x = 12x
  4. Multiply the last terms: 3 * -1 = -3
  5. Combine the terms: 8x² - 2x + 12x - 3
  6. Simplify: 8x² + 10x - 3

Therefore, (2x + 3)(4x - 1) expands to 8x² + 10x - 3.

Conclusion

The (ax+b)(cx+d) formula is a fundamental tool in algebra that enables us to manipulate and simplify expressions involving binomials. By understanding and applying this formula, we can effectively work with quadratic expressions, equations, and functions, paving the way for further exploration and advancements in mathematics.

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