Solving (x+4)(x+4)
This expression represents the square of a binomial, specifically (x+4) multiplied by itself. There are two ways to solve it:
1. Expanding using the FOIL method:
FOIL stands for First, Outer, Inner, Last, a mnemonic to remember the order of multiplication:
- First: x * x = x²
- Outer: x * 4 = 4x
- Inner: 4 * x = 4x
- Last: 4 * 4 = 16
Adding all the terms together, we get:
x² + 4x + 4x + 16
Combining like terms:
x² + 8x + 16
2. Using the Square of a Binomial Formula:
The square of a binomial formula states: (a + b)² = a² + 2ab + b²
In our case, a = x and b = 4. Applying the formula:
- a² = x²
- 2ab = 2 * x * 4 = 8x
- b² = 4² = 16
Combining the terms:
x² + 8x + 16
Therefore, the solution to (x+4)(x+4) is x² + 8x + 16.