Multiplying the polynomial expression (x + 2)(x-4)

Answer 1

To multiply the polynomial expressions \((x + 2)(x - 4)\), you can use the distributive property (also known as the FOIL method for binomials).

1. First: Multiply the first terms:
   \(x \cdot x = x^2\)

2. Outer: Multiply the outer terms:
   \(x \cdot (-4) = -4x\)

3. Inner: Multiply the inner terms:
   \(2 \cdot x = 2x\)

4. Last: Multiply the last terms:
   \(2 \cdot (-4) = -8\)

Now, combine all these results together:
\[ x^2 - 4x + 2x - 8 \]

Combine the like terms (\(-4x + 2x\)):
\[ x^2 - 2x - 8 \]

So, the product of \((x + 2)(x - 4)\) is: \[ \boxed{x^2 - 2x - 8} \]