Multiplying Algebraic Expressions


Related Pages
Algebraic Expressions
Adding And Subtracting Algebraic Expressions
More Algebra Lessons

In these lessons, we will learn how to multiply algebraic expressions.




Share this page to Google Classroom

The following diagram shows some expansions, that are useful to remember, when multiplying two algebraic expressions or binomials. Scroll down the page for more examples and solutions on how to expand expressions.

Expand Expressions

Printable & Online Algebra Worksheets

How to Multiply a Term and an Algebraic Expression?

We will first consider examples of multiplying a term and an algebraic expression.

Multiplying Expressions Example



How to Multiply Two Algebraic Expressions?

Next, we will also consider the multiplication of two algebraic expressions: (a + b)(c + d)

Such an operation is called ‘expanding the expression’.
To expand the expression, we multiply each term in the first pair of brackets by every term in the second pair of brackets.

Example:
Expand the following:
a) (y – 3)(2y + 5)
b) (a + b)2

Solution:
a) (y – 3)(2y + 5)
= y(2y+ 5) – 3(2y + 5)
= (y × 2y) + (y × 5) + (–3 × 2y) + (–3 × 5)
= 2y2 + 5y – 6y – 15
= 2y2 – y – 15

b) (a + b)2
= (a + b)(a + b) = a(a + b) + b(a + b)
= a2 + ab + ab + b2
= a2 + 2ab + b2

Multiplication of Algebraic Expressions:

  1. Multiply the numbers (numerical coefficients)
  2. Multiply the letters (literal numbers) - Exponents can only be combined if the base is the same.

Example:

  1. -2c2(-7c3x5)(bx2)2 =
  2. 3a2(-ab4)(2a2c3) =
  3. 3sy(s - t) =
  4. 4uv2(3u2z - 7u3) =

Examples of multiplying expressions using the distributive property

Example:

  1. (x + 2)(x + 3)
  2. (5x + 9)(4x - 2)
  3. (2x + y)(3x + 2y)
  4. (2x + 2)2

Multiplication of Algebraic Expressions - Use the distributive property

Example:

  1. 3cy2(-4cx - 2xy3)
  2. (x + 5)(x -2)

Multiplication of Algebraic Expressions - Solving Complex Questions

Example:

  1. (b + 3c)2
  2. (2y - 4)3


Try the free Mathway calculator and problem solver below to practice various math topics. Try the given examples, or type in your own problem and check your answer with the step-by-step explanations.
Mathway Calculator Widget



We welcome your feedback, comments and questions about this site or page. Please submit your feedback or enquiries via our Feedback page.