Expanding (x+2)(x+4)
The expression (x+2)(x+4) represents the product of two binomials. To find the answer, we can use the FOIL method, which stands for First, Outer, Inner, Last.
Here's how it works:
- First: Multiply the first terms of each binomial: x * x = x²
- Outer: Multiply the outer terms of each binomial: x * 4 = 4x
- Inner: Multiply the inner terms of each binomial: 2 * x = 2x
- Last: Multiply the last terms of each binomial: 2 * 4 = 8
Now, we combine all the terms:
x² + 4x + 2x + 8
Finally, simplify by combining like terms:
x² + 6x + 8
Therefore, the answer to (x+2)(x+4) is x² + 6x + 8.
Understanding the FOIL Method
The FOIL method is a helpful visual aid for remembering how to expand binomials. It ensures that every term in one binomial is multiplied by every term in the other binomial, resulting in a complete and accurate product.
Remember: The FOIL method is just a shortcut for applying the distributive property of multiplication.