How Do You Multiply Polynomials Using The FOIL Method?
FOIL is an acronym for first, outside, inside, last. This is a common method used to multiply polynomials. A binomial is a polynomial with exactly two terms. When two binomials are multiplied, the FOIL method is used to provide an easy to follow memory aid. FOIL stands for First, Inside, Outside, Last. Start with two binomials for example: (3a + 4b)(7a + 3b). F would stand for the product of the two first terms. 3a * 7a. If you multiplied these two, the product would be 21a^2(21 a squared). O means the outside terms. In this example, it refers to 3a and 3b. 3a * 3b equals 9ab. I is an acronym for inside, and suggests that you should multiply the inside terms of the binomials. In this example, we are multiplying (4b * 7a), which yields 28ab, or 28*a*b. Usually, and in this case, the outside and the inside terms can be combined and simplified. 28ab + 9ab would equal 37ab. Use this combined term in your final answer. L stands for last and refers to the last terms of the binomials. In this
