Expanding and Simplifying (x-3)(x+8)
This expression represents the multiplication of two binomials: (x-3) and (x+8). To simplify this, we can use the FOIL method.
FOIL stands for:
- First: Multiply the first terms of each binomial.
- Outer: Multiply the outer terms of the binomials.
- Inner: Multiply the inner terms of the binomials.
- Last: Multiply the last terms of each binomial.
Let's apply this to our expression:
F: x * x = x² O: x * 8 = 8x I: -3 * x = -3x L: -3 * 8 = -24
Now, we add all the terms together:
x² + 8x - 3x - 24
Finally, combine the like terms:
x² + 5x - 24
Therefore, the expanded and simplified form of (x-3)(x+8) is x² + 5x - 24.