Factoring and Simplifying (x+3)^2 - 9
The expression (x+3)^2 - 9 might look intimidating at first, but it's actually quite simple to simplify and factor. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Expanding the Expression
First, let's expand the square:
(x+3)^2 = (x+3)(x+3) = x^2 + 3x + 3x + 9 = x^2 + 6x + 9
Now, substitute this back into the original expression:
(x+3)^2 - 9 = x^2 + 6x + 9 - 9
Simplifying the Expression
The 9 and -9 cancel each other out, leaving us with:
x^2 + 6x
Factoring the Expression
We can now factor out a common factor of x:
x^2 + 6x = x(x + 6)
Summary
Therefore, we have simplified and factored the expression (x+3)^2 - 9 to x(x+6).
This process showcases how we can use algebraic manipulations to simplify and factor complex expressions, making them easier to work with in various mathematical contexts.