Factoring by Difference of Squares

Front

What is the difference of squares?

Back

The difference of squares is a mathematical expression of the form a² - b², which can be factored into (a + b)(a - b).

Front

Can we factor using the difference of squares if the expression is an addition?

Back

No, we cannot factor using the difference of squares if the expression contains an addition sign.

Front

Factor the expression: x² - 16.

Back

(x + 4)(x - 4)

Front

What is a perfect square?

Back

A perfect square is a number that can be expressed as the square of an integer.

Front

Factor the expression: y² - 196.

Back

(y + 14)(y - 14)

Front

What is the formula for factoring a difference of squares?

Back

The formula is a² - b² = (a + b)(a - b).

Front

Factor the expression: x² - 400.

Back

(x - 20)(x + 20)

Front

What is the result of factoring x² - 25?

Back

(x + 5)(x - 5)

Front

What does it mean if an expression is prime in the context of factoring?

Back

An expression is prime if it cannot be factored into simpler expressions.

Front

What is the first step in factoring a difference of squares?

Back

Identify if the expression is in the form a² - b².