FOIL Method Calculator
Multiply binomials using the FOIL method.
Enter Binomials to Multiply
FOIL Steps:
First: (2x)(3x) = 6x²
Outer: (2x)(4) = 8x
Inner: (3)(3x) = 9x
Last: (3)(4) = 12
Combine: 6x² + 8x + 9x + 12 = 6x² + 17x + 12
What is FOIL?
FOIL stands for: - First: Multiply first terms - Outer: Multiply outer terms - Inner: Multiply inner terms - Last: Multiply last terms
Example: (ax + b)(cx + d) = acx² + adx + bcx + bd
How to Use FOIL
- First: Multiply the first terms: ax · cx = acx²
- Outer: Multiply outer terms: ax · d = adx
- Inner: Multiply inner terms: b · cx = bcx
- Last: Multiply last terms: b · d = bd
- Combine like terms: acx² + (ad + bc)x + bd
Why FOIL Works
FOIL is a specific case of the distributive property. Each term in the first binomial must be multiplied by each term in the second binomial.
Real-World Applications
Binomial multiplication appears in: - Algebra and polynomial operations - Area calculations - Quadratic equations - Physics formulas - Engineering calculations
Common Questions
What does FOIL stand for?
FOIL stands for First, Outer, Inner, Last - the order in which you multiply terms when multiplying two binomials.
When do you use the FOIL method?
Use FOIL when multiplying two binomials, like (ax + b)(cx + d). It helps you remember to multiply each term in the first binomial by each term in the second.