Multiplying Polynomials: (x+2)(x^2+4x-3)

Question

We use a combination of FOIL and Distributive Property rules when multiplying other sizes of polynomials

Answer 1

(x+2)(x^2 +4x -3)

= x(x^2 +4x-3) + 2(x^2+4x-3)

= x^3 +4x^2 -3x + 2x^2 +8x -6

combine like terms

= x^3 +6x^2 +5x -6

the above involves the distributive property

FOIL usually is associated with a binomial

F or First L for last. Those are easiest with a binomial times a trinomial, x(x^2) =x^3 for the leadng highest degreed term. Last is 2(-3) =-6 = the constant term

trickier is the O and I, Outside and Inside. Outide = -3x and 4x^2. Inside 2x^2 and 8x

add the Outside and Inside to get -3x+4x^2 + 2x^2 +8x = 6x^2 +5x