Binomial Expansion: Concepts & Theory

If n is a positive integer, (a + x)n can be expanded as
  • (a + x)n = an + nC1 an-1 x + nC2 an-2x2 + nC3 an-3x3 + ... + xn.
    Suggested Action:
    Kickstart Your CAT-MBA Journey with FREE Live Masterclasses from the Test Prep Experts!
    Register Now
    Applying binomial on (a + b)2
    Using general expansion equation:
    a2-0 + 2c1(a)2-1(b)1 + b2-0 = a2+2ab+ b2
    Applying Binomial on (a + b)3
    a3-0 + 3c1a3-1b1 + 3c2 a3-2b2 + b3-0 = a3 + 3a2b + 3ab2 + b3
    And if in this case if particular term say ‘r’ is asked, then instead of applying the whole expansion, the following direct formula can be applied to find the ‘r’th term
  • ‘r’th term = xn–r+1ar – 1[{n(n – 1)(n – 2) ... (n – r + 2)} ÷ (r – 1)!]. Similarly (x + a)n can be expanded as
  • (x + a)n = xn + nC1 xn–1a + nC1 xn–2 a2 + nC1 xn–3 a3 + ... + an In case of a binomial expansion, if any particular term say ‘r’ is asked, then instead of applying the whole expansion, the following direct formula can be applied to find the ‘r’th term.
  • Suggested Action:
    Get CAT-MBA Free 20+ Tests & 100+ Videos, eBooks & more to boost your prep.
    Sign Up Now
  • ‘r’th term = an–r+1 xr–1 [{n(n–1) (n – 2) ... (n – r + 2)} ÷ (r – 1)!] So order of the term to be expanded is very important i.e., whether it is in the form (a + x)n or (x + a)n
Rate Us
Views:4823