Factoring Math Example 3

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

Example 3

easy
Factor x2−16x^2 - 16.

Solution

  1. 1
    Recognize as a difference of squares: x2−42x^2 - 4^2.
  2. 2
    Factor: (x+4)(x−4)(x + 4)(x - 4).

Answer

(x+4)(x−4)(x + 4)(x - 4)
The difference of squares pattern a2−b2=(a+b)(a−b)a^2 - b^2 = (a+b)(a-b) is one of the most common factoring patterns.

About Factoring

Rewriting an algebraic expression as a product of two or more simpler expressions that multiply to give the original.

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More Factoring Examples

Example 1 easy

Factor [formula].

Example 2 medium

Factor [formula].

Example 4 medium

Factor [formula].

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