Question

What is the first step in simplifying the expression

-5x2(4x3 - x2)2 ?
O Distribute -5x?
Square 4x - x2
Subtract 4x3 - 2

Answer 1

Square 4x³ - x²

Explanation:

Given the expression -5x²(4x³ - x²)²

The first step in simplifying the expression is to open the parenthesis by taking the square of 4x³ - x² as shown;

-5x²(4x³ - x²)²

= -5x²[(4x³)²- 2x²(4x³) + (x²)²]

= -5x²[16x^6- 8x^5 + x^4]

Hence the correct answer is Square 4x³ - x²