The Importance of Expanding and Simplifying Algebraic Expressions

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 31 views

Understanding the Problem

When it comes to algebraic expressions, one of the most common operations is expanding and simplifying them. In this article, we will focus on finding the product and collecting all like terms in a given expression. The expression we will be working with is $(p-9)\left(3p^2-2p+3\right)$ . Our goal is to simplify this expression and provide the final answer.

The Importance of Expanding and Simplifying Algebraic Expressions

Expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions is a crucial skill in mathematics, particularly in algebra and calculus. It allows us to manipulate and analyze complex expressions, which is essential in solving equations, inequalities, and other mathematical problems. By expanding and simplifying expressions, we can identify patterns, relationships, and properties that may not be immediately apparent.

Step 1: Distribute the Terms

To expand and simplify the given expression, we need to distribute the terms. This involves multiplying each term in the first expression by each term in the second expression. In this case, we have $(p-9)\left(3p^2-2p+3\right)$ . We will multiply each term in the first expression by each term in the second expression.

Distributing the Terms: A Step-by-Step Guide

To distribute the terms, we will follow these steps:

Multiply the first term in the first expression ( $p$ ) by each term in the second expression ( $3p^2$ , $-2p$ , and $3$ ).
Multiply the second term in the first expression ( $-9$ ) by each term in the second expression ( $3p^2$ , $-2p$ , and $3$ ).

Multiplying the Terms

Now, let's multiply the terms:

$p \cdot 3p^2 = 3p^3$
$p \cdot (-2p) = -2p^2$
$p \cdot 3 = 3p$
$-9 \cdot 3p^2 = -27p^2$
$-9 \cdot (-2p) = 18p$
$-9 \cdot 3 = -27$

Combining Like Terms

Now that we have multiplied the terms, we can combine like terms. Like terms are terms that have the same variable and exponent. In this case, we have the following like terms:

$3p^3$
$-2p^2$
$-27p^2$
$3p$
$18p$
$-27$

Combining Like Terms: A Step-by-Step Guide

To combine like terms, we will follow these steps:

Identify the like terms.
Add or subtract the coefficients of the like terms.

Combining Like Terms: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let's combine the like terms:

$3p^3$ (no like terms)
$-2p^2$ and $-27p^2$ can be combined to get $-29p^2$
$3p$ and $18p$ can be combined to get $21p$
$-27$ (no like terms)

The Final Answer

Now that we have combined the like terms, we can write the final answer:

$3p^3 - 29p^2 + 21p - 27$

Conclusion

In this article, we have learned how to expand and simplify algebraic expressions by finding the product and collecting all like terms. We have used the expression $(p-9)\left(3p^2-2p+3\right)$ as an example and have followed a step-by-step guide to distribute the terms, multiply the terms, and combine like terms. By following these steps, we can simplify complex expressions and identify patterns, relationships, and properties that may not be immediately apparent.

Q: What is the purpose of expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions?

A: The purpose of expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions is to manipulate and analyze complex expressions, which is essential in solving equations, inequalities, and other mathematical problems. By expanding and simplifying expressions, we can identify patterns, relationships, and properties that may not be immediately apparent.

Q: What is the difference between expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions?

A: Expanding algebraic expressions involves multiplying the terms, while simplifying algebraic expressions involves combining like terms. In other words, expanding an expression makes it more complex, while simplifying an expression makes it more concise.

Q: How do I know when to expand and simplify an algebraic expression?

A: You should expand an algebraic expression when you need to multiply the terms, and you should simplify an algebraic expression when you need to combine like terms. In general, you should expand an expression when you are multiplying two or more expressions, and you should simplify an expression when you are combining like terms.

Q: What are like terms?

A: Like terms are terms that have the same variable and exponent. For example, $2x^2$ and $5x^2$ are like terms because they have the same variable ( $x$ ) and exponent ( $2$ ).

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 $2x^2 + 5x^2$ , you can combine the like terms by adding the coefficients: $2 + 5 = 7$ , so the expression becomes $7x^2$ .

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:

Forgetting to distribute the terms when multiplying expressions
Forgetting to combine like terms when simplifying expressions
Making errors when adding or subtracting coefficients
Not checking for like terms when simplifying expressions

Q: How can I practice expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions?

A: You can practice expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions by working through examples and exercises in your textbook or online resources. You can also try creating your own examples and exercises to practice your skills.

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:

Solving equations and inequalities in physics and engineering
Modeling population growth and decay in biology and economics
Analyzing data and making predictions in statistics and data science
Creating and solving optimization problems in business and finance

Q: Can I use technology to help me expand and simplify algebraic expressions?

A: Yes, you can use technology to help you expand and simplify algebraic expressions. Many graphing calculators and computer algebra systems (CAS) can perform these operations automatically, allowing you to focus on the underlying math concepts.

Q: How can I use expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions to solve real-world problems?

A: You can use expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions to solve real-world problems by:

Modeling complex systems and relationships
Analyzing data and making predictions
Creating and solving optimization problems
Solving equations and inequalities in physics and engineering

By mastering the skills of expanding and simplifying algebraic expressions, you can tackle a wide range of real-world problems and make a meaningful impact in your chosen field.