Question

Simplify the expression –3(x + 3)2 – 3 + 3x. What is the simplified expression in standard form?

–3x2 – 18x – 27
–3x2 – 15x – 30
–3x2 + 3x + 6
–3x2 + 3x – 30

Answer 1

Start with –3(x + 3)^2 – 3 + 3x.

(x + 3)^2 = x^2 + 6x + 9, so
–3(x^2 + 6x + 9) – 3 + 3x = –3x^2 – 18x – 27 – 3 + 3x
Combine like terms: –3x^2 – 15x – 30.

Answer: –3x^2 – 15x – 30.