Simplifying the Expression (x-3)(x-8) + (x-4)(2x+9)
This article will guide you through the process of simplifying the given algebraic expression: (x-3)(x-8) + (x-4)(2x+9)
Expanding the Products
To simplify the expression, we need to expand the products using the distributive property (also known as FOIL method):
-
(x-3)(x-8):
- x * x = x²
- x * -8 = -8x
- -3 * x = -3x
- -3 * -8 = 24
- Combining the terms: x² - 11x + 24
-
(x-4)(2x+9):
- x * 2x = 2x²
- x * 9 = 9x
- -4 * 2x = -8x
- -4 * 9 = -36
- Combining the terms: 2x² + x - 36
Combining Like Terms
Now, we have: (x² - 11x + 24) + (2x² + x - 36)
Combine the like terms:
- x² + 2x² = 3x²
- -11x + x = -10x
- 24 - 36 = -12
Simplified Expression
Finally, the simplified form of the expression is: 3x² - 10x - 12