Question
Multiply and collect like terms:

First, let’s use the distributive property (also known as the FOIL method for binomials) to multiply the two expressions. We have , , , and . By combining all these products, we get

Now, collect the like terms:

So, the final result after multiplying and combining like terms is .

Did you know that the distributive property dates back to ancient civilizations like the Babylonians? They managed to tackle algebraic problems long before the formal symbols we use today were even invented!

Multiplying polynomials not only helps in algebra, but it also has real-world applications like calculating areas and volumes. For instance, if you’re determining the area of a rectangular garden where one side has a variable length, you can utilize the techniques you’ve just practiced!