Find the product of the polynomials (2x+1)(x−4) .(2 points)

2x^2+_x+_

1 answer

To find the product of the polynomials \( (2x + 1)(x - 4) \), we will apply the distributive property (also known as the FOIL method for binomials).

  1. Multiply the first terms: \[ 2x \cdot x = 2x^2 \]

  2. Multiply the outer terms: \[ 2x \cdot (-4) = -8x \]

  3. Multiply the inner terms: \[ 1 \cdot x = x \]

  4. Multiply the last terms: \[ 1 \cdot (-4) = -4 \]

Now combine all these results: \[ 2x^2 - 8x + x - 4 \] Combine the like terms (-8x and x): \[ 2x^2 - 7x - 4 \]

So, the product of the polynomials \( (2x + 1)(x - 4) \) is: \[ 2x^2 - 7x - 4 \]

Thus, the coefficients for your question will be:

  • For the coefficient of \( x \): \(-7\)
  • For the constant term: \(-4\)

Final answer: \[ 2x^2 - 7x - 4 \]