(x^2+1)^2-6(x^2+1)+9

2 min read Jun 17, 2024
(x^2+1)^2-6(x^2+1)+9

Factoring the Expression (x^2 + 1)^2 - 6(x^2 + 1) + 9

This expression can be factored using the pattern of a perfect square trinomial. Let's break it down step by step:

1. Recognizing the Pattern:

The expression resembles the form of a perfect square trinomial: (a - b)^2 = a^2 - 2ab + b^2

2. Identifying a and b:

In our expression, (x^2 + 1) plays the role of 'a' and 3 plays the role of 'b'. Notice that:

  • (x^2 + 1)^2 corresponds to a^2
  • -6(x^2 + 1) corresponds to -2ab (since -6 = -2 * 3)
  • 9 corresponds to b^2 (since 9 = 3^2)

3. Factoring the Expression:

Following the pattern, we can factor the expression as:

(x^2 + 1)^2 - 6(x^2 + 1) + 9 = (x^2 + 1 - 3)^2

4. Simplifying the Result:

Simplifying the expression further, we get:

(x^2 + 1 - 3)^2 = (x^2 - 2)^2

Therefore, the factored form of the expression (x^2 + 1)^2 - 6(x^2 + 1) + 9 is (x^2 - 2)^2.