Binomial

Definition

A binomial is an algebraic expression containing exactly two distinct terms separated by a plus or minus sign. Each term can be a number, variable, or product of numbers and variables.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A binomial expression is in the form of ax + b or ax - b where 'a' and 'b' are constants.
2. When expanded, the multiplication of two binomials yields a trinomial.
3. The distributive property (FOIL method) is commonly used to expand products of binomials.
4. Binomials play a crucial role in formulating quadratic equations.
5. The square of a binomial follows the pattern (a + b)^2 = a^2 + 2ab + b^2.

Review Questions

• What does a typical binomial expression look like?
• How do you expand the product of two binomials?
• What is the result when you square a binomial?

Related terms

Polynomial: An algebraic expression consisting of multiple terms combined using addition, subtraction, and multiplication.

Quadratic Equation: An equation where the highest exponent of the variable is squared, typically taking the form ax^2 + bx + c = 0.

Distributive Property: A mathematical property used to multiply a single term by two or more terms inside a set of parentheses.