(x+4)(x-2) Simplify

less than a minute read Jun 16, 2024

Simplifying (x+4)(x-2)

In mathematics, simplifying expressions often involves expanding and combining like terms. Let's take a look at how to simplify the expression (x+4)(x-2).

Understanding the Process

This expression represents the product of two binomials. To simplify it, we can use the FOIL method:

First: Multiply the first terms of each binomial: x * x = x²
Outer: Multiply the outer terms of the binomials: x * -2 = -2x
Inner: Multiply the inner terms of the binomials: 4 * x = 4x
Last: Multiply the last terms of each binomial: 4 * -2 = -8

Applying FOIL

Now we have: x² - 2x + 4x - 8

Combining Like Terms

Finally, we combine the -2x and 4x terms: x² + 2x - 8

The Simplified Expression

Therefore, the simplified form of (x+4)(x-2) is x² + 2x - 8.