Question

A greenhouse that specializes in growing geraniums is divided into sections. The number of geranium pots in each section depends on the number of sprinklers in that section.

There are x(7x − 2) pots of red geraniums and (x + 3)2 pots of pink geraniums in a section with x sprinklers.

Which simplified expression represents the total number of red and pink geranium pots in a section with x sprinklers?

8x2 + 4x + 9

8x2 + 6x + 9

8x2 + 6x + 7

8x4 + 4x2 + 9

Answer 1

I think this is a matter of simplify, then add, then simplify some more.

Answer 2

I've tried to solve it but keep getting none of the multi choice options

Answer 3

You have two expressions, x(7x − 2) and (x + 3)^2.
Simplify both of those independently first.

Answer 4

okay than after that do I add them together?

Answer 5

Yes, because it's asking for "the total number of red and pink geranium pots "

Answer 6

i still end up with 8x^2 - 2x +9 ( not one of the options)

Answer 7

Interesting..
What did you get for (x+3)^2 ?

Answer 8

x^2 + 9

Answer 9

Ah.

Answer 10

That's what I suspected. You're missing the middle term.
(x+3)^2 = (x+3)(x+3) = x^2 +3x +3x + 9.

Answer 11

Exponents don't distribute like multiplication, you have to expand the binomials and multiply by FOIL (First Outer Inner Last).

Answer 12

oh okay ..... thanks