Expanding and Simplifying the Expression: (x-8)(x+4) + (x-3)(x+9)
This article will explore how to expand and simplify the expression: (x-8)(x+4) + (x-3)(x+9).
Expanding the Products
We start by applying the FOIL method (First, Outer, Inner, Last) to each of the two products:
-
(x-8)(x+4)
- First: x * x = x²
- Outer: x * 4 = 4x
- Inner: -8 * x = -8x
- Last: -8 * 4 = -32
-
(x-3)(x+9)
- First: x * x = x²
- Outer: x * 9 = 9x
- Inner: -3 * x = -3x
- Last: -3 * 9 = -27
Combining these terms, we get:
x² + 4x - 8x - 32 + x² + 9x - 3x - 27
Simplifying the Expression
Now, we combine like terms:
- x² + x² = 2x²
- 4x - 8x + 9x - 3x = 2x
- -32 - 27 = -59
Therefore, the simplified expression is: 2x² + 2x - 59
Conclusion
By applying the FOIL method and combining like terms, we have successfully expanded and simplified the expression (x-8)(x+4) + (x-3)(x+9) to 2x² + 2x - 59. This process demonstrates how algebraic manipulation can be used to express complex expressions in a more concise and understandable form.