Use the Multiplication drop-down list on the Functions page to factor terms, multiply out expressions, and distribute multiplication and division over addition.
- Factor
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Factors a selected term out of a product.
Before factoring
After factoring
- Factor Some
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Factors a selected term from only those terms that contain it.
Before factoring
After factoring
- Multiply Out
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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
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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
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Performs a variety of operations depending on the expression you select, as shown in the following examples:
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Distributes division over addition.
Selected expression
After distributing
Use the Add Fractions command to perform the reverse operation.
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Distributes multiplication over addition.
Selected expression
After distributing
Use the Factor command to perform the reverse operation.
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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.
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- Distribute Over Equality
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Performs the same operation on both sides of an equal sign.
Selected expression
After distributing
