Question

Multiply
(5-6x^6)^2 =

Answer 1

This can be read as (5-6x^6)*(5-6x^6), right?

So times out the terms;

[5*5] + [5*-(6x^6)] + [5*-(6x^6)] + [(-6x^6)*(-6x^6)]

Answer 2

We can then assess each term on it's own, if that's easier for you;

5*5 = 25

5*-(6x^6) = -30x^6

There are two of these factors, so now (-30x^6) + (-30x^6) = -60x^6

(-6x^6)*(-6x^6) = 36x^12 [remember your index laws! When multiplying two factors, add the powers: ie in this case, 6+6=12]

Sum them up!

25 + -60x^6 + 36x^12 = 25 - 60x^6 + 36x^12