Simplifying the Expression (x + 2) + (x - 2)(2x + 1)
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the algebraic expression (x + 2) + (x - 2)(2x + 1).
Step 1: Expanding the Product
The first step is to expand the product of the two binomials (x - 2)(2x + 1) using the distributive property (also known as FOIL method).
- First: x * 2x = 2x²
- Outer: x * 1 = x
- Inner: -2 * 2x = -4x
- Last: -2 * 1 = -2
Therefore, (x - 2)(2x + 1) = 2x² - 3x - 2
Step 2: Combining Like Terms
Now, substitute the expanded expression back into the original equation:
(x + 2) + (2x² - 3x - 2)
Combine the like terms:
- x + 2x² - 3x - 2 + 2
This simplifies to: 2x² - 2x
Conclusion
The simplified form of the expression (x + 2) + (x - 2)(2x + 1) is 2x² - 2x.