Simplify (2x)^2

Study for the PSAT 8/9 Math Test. Practice with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Simplify (2x)^2

Explanation:
Squaring a product means you square each factor. So (2x)^2 = (2)^2 · (x)^2 = 4x^2, which is the same as (2x)(2x) = 4x^2. This shows why the coefficient 2 is squared and the x is squared as well. The other results would come from squaring only part of the expression or not squaring the coefficient, which isn’t what happens when you square the entire product. The correct result is 4x^2.

Squaring a product means you square each factor. So (2x)^2 = (2)^2 · (x)^2 = 4x^2, which is the same as (2x)(2x) = 4x^2. This shows why the coefficient 2 is squared and the x is squared as well. The other results would come from squaring only part of the expression or not squaring the coefficient, which isn’t what happens when you square the entire product. The correct result is 4x^2.

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