Choosing the Correct Simplified Form

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 47 views

Introduction

Algebraic expressions are a fundamental concept in mathematics, and expanding and simplifying them is a crucial skill to master. In this article, we will focus on expanding and simplifying the expression ${$ (x+5)(x^2-3x)$}$, and we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it. We will also discuss the importance of simplifying algebraic expressions and provide tips on how to choose the correct simplified form from the given options.

What is Expanding and Simplifying Algebraic Expressions?

Expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions involves using the distributive property to multiply out the terms in an expression, and then combining like terms to simplify it. This process is essential in algebra, as it allows us to manipulate expressions and solve equations.

Step 1: Apply the Distributive Property

The first step in expanding and simplifying the expression ${$ (x+5)(x^2-3x)$}$ is to apply the distributive property. The distributive property states that for any real numbers a, b, and c, the following equation holds:

a(b + c) = ab + ac

In this case, we can apply the distributive property to the expression ${$ (x+5)(x^2-3x)$}$ as follows:

${$ (x+5)(x^2-3x) = x(x^2-3x) + 5(x^2-3x)$

Step 2: Multiply Out the Terms

The next step is to multiply out the terms in the expression. We can do this by multiplying each term in the first expression by each term in the second expression:

[$x(x^2-3x) = x^3 - 3x^2$

[$5(x^2-3x) = 5x^2 - 15x$

Step 3: Combine Like Terms

The final step is to combine like terms. We can do this by adding or subtracting the coefficients of the like terms:

[$x^3 - 3x^2 + 5x^2 - 15x = x^3 + 2x^2 - 15x$

Choosing the Correct Simplified Form

Now that we have simplified the expression, we need to choose the correct simplified form from the given options. Let's take a look at the options:

A. [ $x^3 + 5x^2 - 15x\$ B. \[$ x^3 + 5x^2 - 15$ C. [ $x^3 + 2x^2 - 15\$ D. \[$ x^3 + 2x^2 - 15x$

Based on our simplified expression, we can see that the correct simplified form is:

[$x^3 + 2x^2 - 15x$

This is option D.

Conclusion

Expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions is a crucial skill in mathematics. By applying the distributive property, multiplying out the terms, and combining like terms, we can simplify complex expressions and solve equations. In this article, we have provided a step-by-step guide on how to expand and simplify the expression [ $(x+5)(x^2-3x)\$}$ , and we have discussed the importance of simplifying algebraic expressions. We have also provided tips on how to choose the correct simplified form from the given options.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to help you expand and simplify algebraic expressions:

Always apply the distributive property to multiply out the terms.
Combine like terms by adding or subtracting the coefficients.
Check your work by plugging in values for the variables.
Use a calculator to check your work and ensure that you have the correct simplified form.

Common Mistakes

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions:

Failing to apply the distributive property.
Failing to combine like terms.
Making errors when multiplying out the terms.
Not checking your work.

Real-World Applications

Expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions has many real-world applications. Here are a few examples:

In physics, algebraic expressions are used to describe the motion of objects.
In engineering, algebraic expressions are used to design and optimize systems.
In economics, algebraic expressions are used to model and analyze economic systems.

Final Thoughts

Introduction

In our previous article, we provided a step-by-step guide on how to expand and simplify the expression ${$ (x+5)(x^2-3x)$}$. We also discussed the importance of simplifying algebraic expressions and provided tips on how to choose the correct simplified form from the given options. In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions about expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions.

Q: What is the distributive property?

A: The distributive property is a mathematical concept that states that for any real numbers a, b, and c, the following equation holds:

a(b + c) = ab + ac

This property allows us to multiply out the terms in an expression and simplify it.

Q: How do I apply the distributive property?

A: To apply the distributive property, you need to multiply each term in the first expression by each term in the second expression. For example, if you have the expression ${$ (x+5)(x^2-3x)$}$, you would multiply each term in the first expression by each term in the second expression:

${$ x(x^2-3x) = x^3 - 3x^2$

[$5(x^2-3x) = 5x^2 - 15x$

Q: What is the difference between expanding and simplifying an expression?

A: Expanding an expression involves using the distributive property to multiply out the terms, while simplifying an expression involves combining like terms to reduce the expression to its simplest form.

Q: How do I combine like terms?

A: To combine like terms, you need to add or subtract the coefficients of the like terms. For example, if you have the expression [ $x^3 - 3x^2 + 5x^2 - 15x\$}$ , you would combine the like terms as follows:

${$ x^3 - 3x^2 + 5x^2 - 15x = x^3 + 2x^2 - 15x$

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions include:

Failing to apply the distributive property.
Failing to combine like terms.
Making errors when multiplying out the terms.
Not checking your work.

Q: How do I check my work?

A: To check your work, you can plug in values for the variables and see if the expression simplifies to the correct value. For example, if you have the expression [ $x^3 + 2x^2 - 15x\$}$ , you can plug in x = 1 and see if the expression simplifies to 1^3 + 2(1)^2 - 15(1) = 1 + 2 - 15 = -12.

Q: What are some real-world applications of expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions?

A: Expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions has many real-world applications, including:

In physics, algebraic expressions are used to describe the motion of objects.
In engineering, algebraic expressions are used to design and optimize systems.
In economics, algebraic expressions are used to model and analyze economic systems.

Conclusion

Expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions is a crucial skill in mathematics. By applying the distributive property, multiplying out the terms, and combining like terms, we can simplify complex expressions and solve equations. We hope that this article has provided a helpful guide on how to expand and simplify algebraic expressions, and we encourage you to practice and apply these skills in your own work.

Additional Resources

If you are looking for additional resources on expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions, here are a few suggestions:

Khan Academy: Algebra
Mathway: Algebra
Wolfram Alpha: Algebra

Final Thoughts

Expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions is a crucial skill in mathematics. By applying the distributive property, multiplying out the terms, and combining like terms, we can simplify complex expressions and solve equations. We hope that this article has provided a helpful guide on how to expand and simplify algebraic expressions, and we encourage you to practice and apply these skills in your own work.