# How would I multiply this out?

• Sep 22nd 2009, 05:25 PM
nascar77
How would I multiply this out?
I have these four terms:

(x+1)(x-1)(x-3)(x-5)

What order would i multiply the terms? Does FOIL apply here? I dont need the answer I just need the steps if anyone can help thanks!
• Sep 22nd 2009, 05:42 PM
skeeter
Quote:

Originally Posted by nascar77
I have these four terms:

(x+1)(x-1)(x-3)(x-5)

What order would i multiply the terms? Does FOIL apply here? I dont need the answer I just need the steps if anyone can help thanks!

just go left to right ...

$(x+1)(x-1)(x-3)(x-5)$

$(x^2-1)(x-3)(x-5)$

$(x^3-3x^2-x+3)(x-5)$

keep going ...
• Sep 23rd 2009, 06:48 AM
stapel
Quote:

Originally Posted by nascar77
I have these four terms:

(x+1)(x-1)(x-3)(x-5)

What order would i multiply the terms?

In whatever order you like. Order doesn't matter in multiplication. (Wink)

Quote:

Originally Posted by nascar77
Does FOIL apply here?

Only when multiplying two binomials. As soon as you have something with three terms, you're going to have to use regular multiplication. (Surprised)
• Sep 23rd 2009, 08:50 PM
nascar77
thank you guys