The American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges
 
Beyond Pascal’s Triangle By: Darrell P. Minor

Darrell Minor is a professor of mathematics at Columbus State Community College. His academic interests include number theory, game theory, the history of mathematics, and helping students discover the beauty of mathematics. Away from work, he enjoys bicycling, reading, playing softball, and spending time with his wife and three sons.
E-mail: dminor@cscc.edu

In “Beyond Pascals Triangle” the author demonstrates ways of using “Pascallike” triangles to expand polynomials raised to powers in a fairly quick and easy fashion. The recursive method could easily be implemented within a spreadsheet, or simply by using paper and pencil. An explanation of why the method works follows the several examples that are provided.
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