Math 9
This year, in math, we started with a little review, which for me was good because last year's math I knew how to complete, but never really understood why we did what we did. Now, not only can I explain what to do, but I can explain HOW to do it as well. I have also began to study a little bit of Pre-calculus as well. It's only the beginning
Binomials: one of my challenges
![Picture](/uploads/1/6/5/9/16591066/1359413480.jpg)
Binomials are algebraic expressions of the sum or difference of two terms. Technically, in this case, I am simplifying the expression to the left, (x+9)(x-8). I like to separate the simplifying process into two steps; 1) Foiling and 2) Combining Like Terms.
Step 1: Foiling
Foiling is multiplying two binomials by each other. Here, I would start by taking the x in the binomial (x+9) and multiply it by everything in the binomial; (x-8). So we get x times x which equals x squared and x times 8 which equals 8x. We repeat this with the 9.
Step 2: Combining Like Terms
Next I simplify the expression I got out of foiling; x^2-8x+9x-72 (x^2 means x squared). See how the -8 and 9 are ONLY being multiplied by x? Not x^2? That means that we can combine them. So -8x+9x equals a positive x.
Answer: In the end, we are left with the expression, x^2+x-72
Step 1: Foiling
Foiling is multiplying two binomials by each other. Here, I would start by taking the x in the binomial (x+9) and multiply it by everything in the binomial; (x-8). So we get x times x which equals x squared and x times 8 which equals 8x. We repeat this with the 9.
Step 2: Combining Like Terms
Next I simplify the expression I got out of foiling; x^2-8x+9x-72 (x^2 means x squared). See how the -8 and 9 are ONLY being multiplied by x? Not x^2? That means that we can combine them. So -8x+9x equals a positive x.
Answer: In the end, we are left with the expression, x^2+x-72