Expanding and Simplifying the Expression (x+8)(x-3)(2x+1)
This article will guide you through expanding and simplifying the expression (x+8)(x-3)(2x+1).
Step 1: Multiply the first two factors
Begin by multiplying the first two factors, (x+8) and (x-3):
- (x+8)(x-3) = x² - 3x + 8x - 24
- = x² + 5x - 24
Step 2: Multiply the result by the third factor
Now, multiply the simplified result from Step 1 (x² + 5x - 24) by the third factor (2x + 1):
- (x² + 5x - 24)(2x + 1)
- = 2x³ + x² + 10x² + 5x - 48x - 24
Step 3: Combine like terms
Finally, combine the like terms to get the simplified expression:
- = 2x³ + 11x² - 43x - 24
Therefore, the expanded and simplified form of (x+8)(x-3)(2x+1) is 2x³ + 11x² - 43x - 24.
Key takeaways
- FOIL method: You can use the FOIL (First, Outer, Inner, Last) method to multiply binomials.
- Distributive Property: The distributive property is used to multiply polynomials.
- Combine like terms: Combining like terms simplifies the expression and makes it easier to work with.