Multiply the polynomial expression (x+2)(x−4)

Question

.(2 points)
x2+
x+

Answer 1

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

Here's how it works step by step:

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: \[ x^2 - 4x + 2x - 8 \]

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

So the final result is: \[ x^2 - 2x - 8 \]

Thus, to complete your expression, it should be: \(x^2 - 2x - 8\)