Question

How is the distributive property used when multiplying two binomials

Answer 1

Answer:

Step-by-step explanation:

When multiplying a binomial times a binomial, each term of the first binomial must be multiplied by each term of the second binomial. Like terms are then combined.

When multiplying two binomials, four multiplications must take place. These multiplications can occur in any order, as long as each of the first two terms is multiplied by each of the second two terms.

There are numerous ways to set up the multiplication of two binomials. The two basic formats, horizontal line-up and vertical line-up, are similar to what we saw in adding and subtracting polynomials. Let's investigate the simple product (x + 2)(x + 4) with a variety of set-ups. Start with the first term of the first binomial (the blue x).

• Distribute (multiply) this term times EACH of the terms in the second binomial (x + 4).

• Then take the second term in the first binomial (including its sign: +2) and distribute (multiply) this term times EACH of the terms in the second binomial (x + 4).

• Add the results, combining like terms when needed.

• This method will work with all polynomials, not just binomials times binomials.