Use the distributive property to expand the expression

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 65 views

Introduction

In algebra, multiplying expressions is a fundamental operation that helps us simplify complex equations and solve problems. In this article, we will focus on multiplying two binomial expressions, ${$ (3x - 5)(-x + 4)$}$, using the distributive property. We will break down the process into manageable steps and provide a clear explanation of each step.

The Distributive Property

The distributive property is a fundamental concept in algebra that allows us to multiply expressions by distributing each term of one expression to each term of the other expression. In the case of multiplying two binomial expressions, we can use the distributive property to expand the expression.

Step 1: Apply the Distributive Property

To apply the distributive property, we need to multiply each term of the first expression, ${$ (3x - 5)$}$, by each term of the second expression, ${$ (-x + 4)$}$. This will result in four separate products.

${$ (3x)(-x) + (3x)(4) + (-5)(-x) + (-5)(4)$}$

Step 2: Simplify Each Product

Now that we have applied the distributive property, we need to simplify each product. To simplify each product, we need to multiply the coefficients and variables separately.

${$ -3x^2 + 12x + 5x - 20$}$

Step 3: Combine Like Terms

Now that we have simplified each product, we need to combine like terms. Like terms are terms that have the same variable and exponent. In this case, we have two like terms, ${ $12x\$}$ and ${ $5x\$}$ , which we can combine by adding their coefficients.

${$ -3x^2 + 17x - 20$}$

The Final Answer

The final answer is ${$ -3x^2 + 17x - 20$}$. This is the simplified product in standard form.

Conclusion

Multiplying algebraic expressions using the distributive property can be a challenging task, but with practice and patience, it can become second nature. By breaking down the process into manageable steps and providing a clear explanation of each step, we can make the process more accessible and easier to understand.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to help you multiply algebraic expressions using the distributive property:

Use the distributive property to expand the expression: The distributive property is a powerful tool that allows us to multiply expressions by distributing each term of one expression to each term of the other expression.
Simplify each product: To simplify each product, we need to multiply the coefficients and variables separately.
Combine like terms: Like terms are terms that have the same variable and exponent. We can combine like terms by adding their coefficients.
Check your work: It's always a good idea to check your work by plugging in values for the variables and simplifying the expression.

Common Mistakes

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when multiplying algebraic expressions using the distributive property:

Forgetting to apply the distributive property: The distributive property is a fundamental concept in algebra that allows us to multiply expressions by distributing each term of one expression to each term of the other expression.
Not simplifying each product: To simplify each product, we need to multiply the coefficients and variables separately.
Not combining like terms: Like terms are terms that have the same variable and exponent. We can combine like terms by adding their coefficients.
Not checking your work: It's always a good idea to check your work by plugging in values for the variables and simplifying the expression.

Real-World Applications

Multiplying algebraic expressions using the distributive property has many real-world applications. Here are a few examples:

Science: In science, we often need to multiply expressions to model real-world phenomena. For example, we might need to multiply expressions to model the motion of an object or the growth of a population.
Engineering: In engineering, we often need to multiply expressions to design and optimize systems. For example, we might need to multiply expressions to design a bridge or a building.
Finance: In finance, we often need to multiply expressions to calculate interest rates or investment returns. For example, we might need to multiply expressions to calculate the interest on a loan or the return on an investment.

Conclusion

Introduction

In our previous article, we explored the process of multiplying algebraic expressions using the distributive property. In this article, we will provide a Q&A guide to help you better understand the process and address any questions or concerns you may have.

Q: What is the distributive property?

A: The distributive property is a fundamental concept in algebra that allows us to multiply expressions by distributing each term of one expression to each term of the other expression.

Q: How do I apply the distributive property?

A: To apply the distributive property, you need to multiply each term of the first expression by each term of the second expression. This will result in four separate products.

Q: What if I have a binomial expression with a negative sign?

A: If you have a binomial expression with a negative sign, you can simply distribute the negative sign to each term of the other expression.

Q: How do I simplify each product?

A: To simplify each product, you need to multiply the coefficients and variables separately.

Q: What if I have a product with a variable and a constant?

A: If you have a product with a variable and a constant, you can simply multiply the variable and the constant together.

Q: How do I combine like terms?

A: To combine like terms, you need to add the coefficients of the like terms together.

Q: What if I have a product with a variable and a variable?

A: If you have a product with a variable and a variable, you can simply multiply the variables together.

Q: How do I check my work?

A: To check your work, you can plug in values for the variables and simplify the expression.

Q: What if I make a mistake?

A: If you make a mistake, don't worry! You can simply go back and reapply the distributive property or re-simplify the expression.

Q: Can I use the distributive property with other types of expressions?

A: Yes, you can use the distributive property with other types of expressions, such as trinomials or polynomials.

Q: How do I apply the distributive property with a trinomial?

A: To apply the distributive property with a trinomial, you need to multiply each term of the first expression by each term of the second expression.

Q: What if I have a product with a variable and a fraction?

A: If you have a product with a variable and a fraction, you can simply multiply the variable and the fraction together.

Q: How do I simplify a product with a variable and a fraction?

A: To simplify a product with a variable and a fraction, you need to multiply the variable and the fraction together.

Conclusion

Multiplying algebraic expressions using the distributive property can be a challenging task, but with practice and patience, you can master this operation. By following the steps outlined in this Q&A guide, you can better understand the process and address any questions or concerns you may have.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to help you multiply algebraic expressions using the distributive property:

Use the distributive property to expand the expression: The distributive property is a powerful tool that allows us to multiply expressions by distributing each term of one expression to each term of the other expression.
Simplify each product: To simplify each product, you need to multiply the coefficients and variables separately.
Combine like terms: Like terms are terms that have the same variable and exponent. You can combine like terms by adding their coefficients.
Check your work: It's always a good idea to check your work by plugging in values for the variables and simplifying the expression.

Common Mistakes

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when multiplying algebraic expressions using the distributive property:

Forgetting to apply the distributive property: The distributive property is a fundamental concept in algebra that allows us to multiply expressions by distributing each term of one expression to each term of the other expression.
Not simplifying each product: To simplify each product, you need to multiply the coefficients and variables separately.
Not combining like terms: Like terms are terms that have the same variable and exponent. You can combine like terms by adding their coefficients.
Not checking your work: It's always a good idea to check your work by plugging in values for the variables and simplifying the expression.

Real-World Applications

Multiplying algebraic expressions using the distributive property has many real-world applications. Here are a few examples:

Science: In science, we often need to multiply expressions to model real-world phenomena. For example, we might need to multiply expressions to model the motion of an object or the growth of a population.
Engineering: In engineering, we often need to multiply expressions to design and optimize systems. For example, we might need to multiply expressions to design a bridge or a building.
Finance: In finance, we often need to multiply expressions to calculate interest rates or investment returns. For example, we might need to multiply expressions to calculate the interest on a loan or the return on an investment.