First, when dealing with the Distributive Property, we always need to pay attention to what number/variable we are multiplying by. The concept of the Distributive Property is to look at the number/variable outside of the parenthesis and then multiply it by all numbers/variables inside of the parenthesis individually, and then sum those products up.
If you're having trouble grasping this concept, here's an example:
Ex: 2(1 + 3) Multiply the number outside of the parenthesis (2) by all numbers inside of the parenthesis (1 and 3) individually. 2*(1) + 2*(3) Simplify the multiplication process. 2 + 6 Sum up our products. 8. 8 is our answer for this example.
Now that we've explained and practiced what we are working on, let's apply this concept to the real problem.
7(2x^2 + 9x - 3) Multiply the number outside of the parenthesis (7) by all numbers/variables inside of the parenthesis (2x^2, 9x, and -3). 7(2x^2) + 7(9x) + 7(-3) Simplify the first multiplication parenthesis. 7*2x^2 = 14x^2 Simplify the second multiplication parenthesis. 7*9x = 21x Simplify the third and final multiplication parenthesis. 7*(-3) = -21 (When you multiply a positive by a negative, your product is negative).
Now, let's write down our final products as a whole answer. Remember to start from the highest exponent.
14x^2 + 21x - 21 is your final expression.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any questions or concerns down in the comment box below this answer, and I'll get back to you when I can.
