How do you expand a single bracket example?

To expand a single bracket, you multiply each term inside the bracket by the term outside of it.

Understanding Bracket Expansion

Expanding brackets is a fundamental operation in algebra. It involves applying the distributive property, which states that a(b + c) = ab + ac. This principle is what we use when we expand brackets.

Example

Here’s a step-by-step example to clarify how to expand a single bracket:

Consider the expression 3 ( m + 7 ).

1. Identify the term outside the bracket: In this case, it is 3.

2. Identify the terms inside the bracket: Here, they are m and 7.

3. Multiply the term outside the bracket by each term inside the bracket:

   • Multiply 3 by m: 3 × m = 3m
   • Multiply 3 by 7: 3 × 7 = 21

4. Combine the results: 3m + 21

Therefore, the expanded form of 3 ( m + 7 ) is 3m + 21.

Summary

Original Expression	Operation	Expanded Expression
3 ( m + 7 )	3 × m + 3 × 7	3m + 21

Key takeaways

• The process of bracket expansion is always done by multiplying the outside term with each term inside.
• Pay close attention to signs, especially if there are negative terms.
• The reference information given clearly explains that bracket expansion involves distributing the term outside of the bracket to each term inside.