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

29140 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Solve 3x – 5 < 16


A four sided pyramid, with a vertical height of 10cm and the base 4cmx4cm is placed on the top of a cylinder with radius 1.5cm and a height of 15cm. What is the exposed surface area?


If f(x)=(x-2)^2, determine the gradient of the tangent to the curve f(x) at x=-2.


Simplify and then solve by factorisation 3x(x+2)-7=2, to find x.


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning