(x-1)(x-2)(x-3) Simplify

2 min read Jun 17, 2024
(x-1)(x-2)(x-3) Simplify

Simplifying (x-1)(x-2)(x-3)

This expression represents the product of three binomials. To simplify it, we need to expand the product step-by-step.

Step 1: Expand the first two binomials

First, we multiply the first two binomials: (x-1)(x-2). We can use the FOIL method:

  • First: x * x = x²
  • Outer: x * -2 = -2x
  • Inner: -1 * x = -x
  • Last: -1 * -2 = 2

Adding these terms together, we get: (x-1)(x-2) = x² - 2x - x + 2 = x² - 3x + 2

Step 2: Multiply the result by the remaining binomial

Now, we have to multiply the simplified expression (x² - 3x + 2) by the remaining binomial (x-3):

(x² - 3x + 2)(x - 3) = x²(x-3) - 3x(x-3) + 2(x-3)

We expand this further:

  • x²(x-3) = x³ - 3x²
  • -3x(x-3) = -3x² + 9x
  • 2(x-3) = 2x - 6

Combining all terms, we get:

x³ - 3x² - 3x² + 9x + 2x - 6 = x³ - 6x² + 11x - 6

Final Result

Therefore, the simplified form of (x-1)(x-2)(x-3) is x³ - 6x² + 11x - 6.

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