Expanding (x + 8)^2 into a Trinomial
The expression (x + 8)^2 represents the square of a binomial, which can be expanded into a trinomial in standard form. Here's how we do it:
Understanding the Concept
Remember that squaring a binomial means multiplying it by itself. So, (x + 8)^2 is equivalent to (x + 8)(x + 8).
Using the FOIL Method
We can expand this product using the FOIL method:
- First: x * x = x^2
- Outer: x * 8 = 8x
- Inner: 8 * x = 8x
- Last: 8 * 8 = 64
Now, combine the like terms:
x^2 + 8x + 8x + 64 = x^2 + 16x + 64
Result
Therefore, the trinomial in standard form for (x + 8)^2 is x^2 + 16x + 64.
Key Points
- This process is often referred to as squaring a binomial.
- The result will always be a trinomial.
- The coefficient of the middle term is twice the product of the terms in the original binomial.
- The constant term is the square of the second term in the original binomial.