use the distributive property to remove parenthesis

Question

(x-2) (x-8)

please simplify

Answer 1

Hi Zane J.,

Here's my answer to your question.

What we can do is something called FOIL. Don't be confused by this method, functionally it is actually the same as regular distribution, but only slightly more complex. FOIL stands for First Outer Inner Last which represents the order at which we will multiply the terms. Let's start with the First term:

1. (x-2) (x-8) = x²

Now the Outer terms:

1. (x-2) (x-8) = x² + -8x

Now the Inner terms:

1. (x-2) (x-8) = x² + -8x + -2x

Now the Last terms:

1. (x-2) (x-8) = x² + -8x + -2x + -16

Now we simplify:

1. (x-2) (x-8) = x² + -10x -16

Using the FOIL method correctly from memory comes with practice. If you have any further questions, I would love to help.