Simplifying the Expression: (x+5)^2(x-5)^2 / (x^2 + 25)
This expression looks complex at first glance, but we can simplify it using some algebraic manipulations. Let's break it down step by step:
Recognizing the Difference of Squares
First, notice that the numerator consists of two squared terms: (x+5)^2 and (x-5)^2. This pattern fits the difference of squares formula:
a² - b² = (a + b)(a - b)
Let's apply this to our numerator:
(x+5)^2(x-5)^2 = [(x+5)(x-5)]^2
Expanding the Expression
Now, we can expand the square in the numerator:
[(x+5)(x-5)]^2 = (x² - 25)²
Further Simplification
Finally, we can substitute this simplified numerator back into the original expression:
(x² - 25)² / (x² + 25)
This expression is now in its simplest form. We can't simplify it further without knowing the specific value of x.
Key Takeaways
- Recognizing patterns like the difference of squares is crucial for simplification.
- Expanding and simplifying expressions can lead to more manageable forms.
- Sometimes, an expression can't be simplified further without specific values for variables.