The Square of a Binomial


In this lesson, we will discover a special rule that can be applied when you square a binomial.


In our last method, we studied the FOIL method for multiplying binomials. We can still apply the FOIL method when we square binomials, but we will also discover a special rule that can be applied to make this process easier. Let's take a look at Example 1.


Example 1

binomial special cases


Let's take a look at a special rule that will allow us to find the product without using the FOIL method.


The square of a binomial is the sum of: the square of the first terms, twice the product of the two terms, and the square of the last term.

I know this sounds confusing, so take a look..

binomial special cases


Now let's take a look at Example 1 and find the product using our special rule.


Example 1 Using the Special Rule

squaring a binomial


Now let's take a look at another example. This time we are going to square a binomial, but this binomial will contain a subtraction sign.


Example 2

For this example, we will not use FOIL, we will use our special rule!

squaring binomials


Let's quickly recap, and look at the definition for Squaring a Binomial. You might want to record this in your Algebra notes.


Squaring a Binomial

squaring a binomial


Are you ready to practice?


binomial practice problems


Practice Problems


binomial practice problems







Answer Key


Problem 1

binomial solutions


Problem 2

binomial solutions


Polynomials Unit

  • Introduction to Polynomials (Definitions)

  • Adding Polynomials

  • Subtracting Polynomials

  • Multiplying Polynomials

  • Using the FOIL Method to Multiply Binomials

  • Squaring a Binomial - Using a Special Rule   You are here

  • Difference of Two Squares - Using a Special Rule   Next Lesson

  • Factoring Polynomials Using the Greatest Common Factor (GCF)

  • Factoring Polynomials by Grouping

  • Factoring Trinomials


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