Chapter Contents

• Basic Algebra
• 1. Addition and Subtraction of Algebraic Expressions
• 2. Multiplication of Algebraic Expressions
• 3. Division of Algebraic Expressions
• 4. Solving Equations
• 5. Formulas and Literal Equations
• 6. Applied Verbal Problems
• Algebra Problem Solver

• Comments, Questions?

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2. Multiplication of Algebraic Expressions

When we multiply algebraic expressions, we need to remember the Index Laws from the Numbers chapter.

Let's see how algebra multiplication works with a series of examples.

Example 1

Multiply x³(x⁴ + 5a)

Answer

Example 2

Multiply (x + 5)(a − 6)

Answer

Example 3

Multiply (2x + 3)(x² − x − 5)

Answer

Example 4

Multiply (x − 3)²

Answer

Important Note:

(x − 3)²

is NOT equal to

x² − 9

Please take note of this! Many students confuse this idea. (See also Towards more meaningful math notation for a discussion on this issue.)

Example 5

Simplify 5x[−4 + 10(x − y)] + 7x

Answer