Math Problem Statement

Simplify the expression: x^2 - x - (a + 1)(a + 2)

Solution

The expression you have uploaded is:

x2x(a+1)(a+2)x^2 - x - (a + 1)(a + 2)

Let's break this down and simplify it step by step:

Step 1: Expand the product (a+1)(a+2)(a + 1)(a + 2)

Using the distributive property:

(a+1)(a+2)=a(a+2)+1(a+2)(a + 1)(a + 2) = a(a + 2) + 1(a + 2) =a2+2a+a+2= a^2 + 2a + a + 2 =a2+3a+2= a^2 + 3a + 2

Step 2: Substitute this result back into the original expression

Now the expression becomes:

x2x(a2+3a+2)x^2 - x - (a^2 + 3a + 2)

Step 3: Simplify the expression

Distribute the negative sign:

x2xa23a2x^2 - x - a^2 - 3a - 2

This is the simplified form of the given expression:

x2xa23a2x^2 - x - a^2 - 3a - 2

Would you like further details on any of the steps?

Here are five related questions you might consider:

  1. How do you factor quadratic expressions like (a+1)(a+2)(a+1)(a+2)?
  2. What happens when you need to solve x2xa23a2=0x^2 - x - a^2 - 3a - 2 = 0 for xx?
  3. How can you use the quadratic formula for equations in the form x2+bx+c=0x^2 + bx + c = 0?
  4. What is the significance of the distributive property in expanding expressions?
  5. How do you combine like terms in an algebraic expression?

Tip: When simplifying algebraic expressions, always expand products first and then combine like terms carefully!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Expanding expressions
Simplification

Formulas

(a + 1)(a + 2) = a^2 + 3a + 2

Theorems

Distributive Property
Combining Like Terms

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10