(x-7).jpeg "(x-9)(x-7)")
Expanding the Expression: (x - 9)(x - 7)
This article will guide you through expanding the expression (x - 9)(x - 7). This involves applying the distributive property, often referred to as FOIL (First, Outer, Inner, Last).
Understanding FOIL
The acronym FOIL provides a systematic way to multiply two binomials. Let's break it down:
- 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.
Applying FOIL to (x - 9)(x - 7)
- First: x * x = x²
- Outer: x * -7 = -7x
- Inner: -9 * x = -9x
- Last: -9 * -7 = 63
Now, combine the results: x² - 7x - 9x + 63
Finally, simplify by combining the like terms: x² - 16x + 63
Conclusion
By applying the FOIL method, we expanded the expression (x - 9)(x - 7) to obtain the simplified form x² - 16x + 63. This method provides a clear and organized approach to multiplying binomials.