Expanding and Simplifying (1/2x + 4/3)(1/2x - 4/3)
This expression is in the form of a difference of squares, which has a specific pattern that makes it easier to expand.
Understanding the Pattern:
The difference of squares pattern states that:
(a + b)(a - b) = a² - b²
Applying the Pattern:
In our case:
- a = 1/2x
- b = 4/3
Therefore, we can directly apply the pattern:
(1/2x + 4/3)(1/2x - 4/3) = (1/2x)² - (4/3)²
Simplifying:
- (1/2x)² = (1/2)² * x² = 1/4x²
- (4/3)² = 16/9
So, the expanded and simplified form is:
1/4x² - 16/9
Conclusion:
By recognizing the difference of squares pattern, we could efficiently expand and simplify the expression (1/2x + 4/3)(1/2x - 4/3) to 1/4x² - 16/9.