Expand and simplify (x+4)(x-5).

For this, we use the FOIL method of expanding brackets; start by multiplying the FIRST terms of each bracket together to get xx=x^2. Next multiply the OUTSIDE elements, ie the first element in the first bracket and the last in the second, giving x(-5)=-5x. Then comes the INSIDE elements, giving 4x=4x, and finaly the LAST elements of each bracket, giving 4(-5)=-20. Adding all these terms together gives us our answer; x^2+4x-5x-20, which can be simplified to x^2-x-20.

AJ
Answered by Alex J. Maths tutor

28048 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Factorise x^2 + 3x +2


A man stands 9 metres from the base of a tree. He knows the distance from where he is standing and the top of the tree is 15 metres. How tall is the tree?


factorise: 3x^2+13x-30


Solve 2x^2+ 7x -8 = 0, giving your answer to 2 decimal places.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning