(x-4)-simplify.jpeg "(x+4)(x-4) Simplify")
Simplifying (x+4)(x-4)
The expression (x+4)(x-4) is a product of two binomials. We can simplify this expression using the difference of squares pattern.
What is the Difference of Squares Pattern?
The difference of squares pattern states that: (a + b)(a - b) = a² - b²
Applying the Pattern to (x+4)(x-4)
In our expression, we have:
- a = x
- b = 4
Applying the difference of squares pattern, we get:
(x + 4)(x - 4) = x² - 4²
Simplifying further
We can further simplify the expression by squaring the constant term:
x² - 4² = x² - 16
Therefore, the simplified form of (x+4)(x-4) is x² - 16.
Key Takeaway
The difference of squares pattern is a useful tool for simplifying expressions of the form (a + b)(a - b). By recognizing this pattern, we can quickly and efficiently simplify expressions without having to expand them using the distributive property.