Expanding and Simplifying (x + 2)(x + 9)
This expression represents the product of two binomials: (x + 2) and (x + 9). To write it in standard form, we need to expand and simplify it.
Using the FOIL Method
The FOIL method is a helpful mnemonic for remembering how to multiply binomials:
- First: Multiply the first terms of each binomial.
- Outer: Multiply the outer terms of each binomial.
- Inner: Multiply the inner terms of each binomial.
- Last: Multiply the last terms of each binomial.
Let's apply this to our expression:
- First: x * x = x²
- Outer: x * 9 = 9x
- Inner: 2 * x = 2x
- Last: 2 * 9 = 18
Now, we combine these terms:
x² + 9x + 2x + 18
Finally, we simplify by combining like terms:
x² + 11x + 18
This is the standard form of the expression (x + 2)(x + 9).
Conclusion
By applying the FOIL method, we successfully expanded and simplified the given expression to its standard form: x² + 11x + 18. This process is essential for understanding and manipulating algebraic expressions in various contexts.