Use the Multiplication drop-down list on the Functions page to factor terms, multiply out expressions, and distribute multiplication and division over addition.
- Factor
Factors a selected term out of a product.
Before factoring
After factoring
- Factor Some
Factors a selected term from only those terms that contain it.
Before factoring
After factoring
- Multiply Out
Simplifies the selected expression, distributes multiplication over addition, and expands a selected term raised to a positive integral power.
Selected expression
After multiplying
The Simplify command also simplifies the selected expression.
- Multiply Out Once
Multiplies the first pair of factors on the left side of a selected expression.
Selected expression
After multiplying
If you use this command several times, the results appear in a different form.
- Distribute
Performs a variety of operations depending on the expression you select, as shown in the following examples:
Distributes division over addition.
Selected expression
After distributing
Use the Add Fractions command to perform the reverse operation.
Distributes multiplication over addition.
Selected expression
After distributing
Use the Factor command to perform the reverse operation.
Transforms products and quotients involving radicals and exponents into a single expression raised to a power.
Selected expression
After distributing
Use the Simplify command to perform the reverse operation.
- Distribute Over Equality
Performs the same operation on both sides of an equal sign.
Selected expression
After distributing
