General Binomial Expansion (Cambridge (CIE) A Level Maths) : Revision Note

General Binomial Expansion

What is the general binomial expansion?

• The binomial expansion applies for positive integers, n ∈ ℕ

• The general binomial expansion applies to other types of powers too

• The general binomial expansion applies for all real numbers, n ∈ℝ

• Usually fractional and/or negative values of n are used

• It is derived from (a + b)ⁿ, with a = 1 and b = x

• a = 1 is the main reason the expansion can be reduced so much

• Unless n ∈ ℕ, the expansion is infinitely long

• It is only valid for |x| < 1

  • This is another way of writing -1 < x < 1

  • This is often called the validity statement

  • The restriction |x| < 1 means the series will converge

  • Higher powers of x can be ignored (as r → ∞, x^r → 0)

  • Only the first few terms of an expansion are needed

How do I expand brackets with the general binomial expansion?

STEP 1       Write the expression in the form (1 + x)ⁿ

STEP 2       Expand and simplify

Use a line for each term to make things easier to read and follow

Use brackets - fractions and negatives get ugly!

STEP 3       If required, check and state the validity statement

How do I use the general binomial expansion when it is (1 + bx)?

STEP 1       Write the expression in the form (1 + bx)ⁿ

STEP 2       Replace “x” by “bx” in the expansion

Check carefully to see if b is negative

STEP 3       Expand and simplify

Use a line for each term to make things easier to read and follow

Use brackets

STEP 4       If required, check and state the validity statement       The validity statement changes   

      Replace “x” with “bx” so now |bx| < 1