Learn Before
Example

Simplifying (2+3)(4−3)(2 + \sqrt{3})(4 - \sqrt{3})

Apply the FOIL method to multiply the binomials, then simplify and combine the resulting products.

(2+3)(4−3)(2 + \sqrt{3})(4 - \sqrt{3})

Obtain the four products using FOIL:

  • First: 2⋅4=82 \cdot 4 = 8
  • Outer: 2⋅(−3)=−232 \cdot (-\sqrt{3}) = -2\sqrt{3}
  • Inner: 3⋅4=43\sqrt{3} \cdot 4 = 4\sqrt{3}
  • Last: 3⋅(−3)=−3\sqrt{3} \cdot (-\sqrt{3}) = -3

Write all four products: 8−23+43−38 - 2\sqrt{3} + 4\sqrt{3} - 3

Combine the constant terms (8−3=58 - 3 = 5) and the like radical terms (−23+43=23-2\sqrt{3} + 4\sqrt{3} = 2\sqrt{3}) to fully simplify the expression:

5+235 + 2\sqrt{3}

0

1

Updated 2026-06-25

Tags

OpenStax

Elementary Algebra @ OpenStax

Ch.9 Roots and Radicals - Elementary Algebra @ OpenStax

Algebra

Math

Prealgebra

Related
Learn After