Factoring (x+1)² - 81
The expression (x+1)² - 81 can be factored using the difference of squares pattern. Here's how:
Difference of Squares
The difference of squares pattern states that:
a² - b² = (a + b)(a - b)
Applying the Pattern
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Recognize the squares:
- (x+1)² is the square of (x+1)
- 81 is the square of 9
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Substitute:
- Let a = (x+1)
- Let b = 9
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Apply the pattern:
- (x+1)² - 81 = (a + b)(a - b)
- (x+1)² - 81 = (x+1 + 9)(x+1 - 9)
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Simplify:
- (x + 10)(x - 8)
Conclusion
Therefore, the factored form of (x+1)² - 81 is (x + 10)(x - 8).