(x+1)(x+2) Foil Method

Jasonbradley

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Jun 16, 2024

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Multiplying Binomials Using the FOIL Method

The FOIL method is a common acronym used to remember the steps for multiplying two binomials. It stands for First, Outer, Inner, Last. This method ensures that each term in the first binomial is multiplied by each term in the second binomial.

Let's use the example of (x + 1)(x + 2) to demonstrate how the FOIL method works.

Steps:

1. First: Multiply the first terms of each binomial.
   • x * x = x²
2. Outer: Multiply the outer terms of the binomials.
   • x * 2 = 2x
3. Inner: Multiply the inner terms of the binomials.
   • 1 * x = x
4. Last: Multiply the last terms of each binomial.
   • 1 * 2 = 2

Combining the Terms:

Now, we combine all the terms we got from the FOIL method:

x² + 2x + x + 2

Simplifying the Expression:

Finally, we combine the like terms:

x² + 3x + 2

Therefore, the product of (x + 1)(x + 2) is x² + 3x + 2.

Key Points:

• The FOIL method helps to systematically multiply the terms of two binomials.
• Remember to combine like terms after using the FOIL method.
• You can apply this method to any two binomials.

By following the steps of the FOIL method, you can confidently multiply any two binomials and arrive at the correct answer.