Factoring the Difference of Squares: (3t + 4)(3t – 4)
This expression represents a special case of factoring known as the difference of squares. The formula for the difference of squares is:
a² - b² = (a + b)(a - b)
Let's break down how to apply this to our expression:
1. Identify the squares:
- (3t)² = 9t²
- 4² = 16
2. Apply the formula:
- (3t + 4)(3t – 4) = (3t)² - 4²
3. Simplify:
- (3t)² - 4² = 9t² - 16
Therefore, the factored form of (3t + 4)(3t – 4) is 9t² - 16. This demonstrates the difference of squares pattern, where the product of two binomials with identical terms but opposite signs results in the difference of their squares.