Question

multiplying trinomials step 2: multiply rows & columns \\((2x + 1)(x^2 - 4x - 2)\\) pro tip: type \x^2\ to get \\\(x^2\\)\ grid complete! combine the matching colors. step 3: simplify combine like terms (match colors) pro tip: type \x^2\ to get \\\(x^2\\)\ check answer

Explanation:

Step1: Identify like terms by color

Blue: $2x^3$; Pink: $-8x^2 + x^2$; Orange: $-4x + (-4x)$; Purple: $-2$

Step2: Combine pink like terms

$-8x^2 + x^2 = (-8+1)x^2 = -7x^2$

Step3: Combine orange like terms

$-4x + (-4x) = (-4-4)x = -8x$

Step4: Assemble all simplified terms

$2x^3 + (-7x^2) + (-8x) + (-2)$

Answer:

$2x^3 - 7x^2 - 8x - 2$