Question

How do I expand the polynomial (1.2c^2 - 7a^2) (1.2^2 + 7a^2)

Answer 1

To expand the given polynomial, you need to use the FOIL (First, Outer, Inner, Last) method. Let's break down the steps:

1. Multiply the first terms of each binomial:
(1.2c^2)(1.2c^2) = 1.44c^4

2. Multiply the outer terms of each binomial:
(1.2c^2)(7a^2) = 8.4a^2c^2

3. Multiply the inner terms of each binomial:
(-7a^2)(1.2c^2) = -8.4a^2c^2

4. Multiply the last terms of each binomial:
(-7a^2)(7a^2) = -49a^4

Now, add up all the products:

1.44c^4 + 8.4a^2c^2 - 8.4a^2c^2 - 49a^4

Notice that 8.4a^2c^2 - 8.4a^2c^2 = 0, so you are left with:

1.44c^4 - 49a^4