simplify the following (a + b)(a – b)
Mathematics · High School · Tue Nov 03 2020
Answered on
Given the equation:
(a + b)(a - b)
Simplify.
Solution:
In order to easily simplify the numerical equation, we must familiarize ourselves with the concepts in factors and expanded forms. The given equation can be categorized as a the sum and difference between two squares. This can be proven by using the FOIL Method. To use the FOIL method in solving for the given numerical expression. Multiply the first term of the first equation, to the first and last term of the second equation. Then, multiply the last term of the first equation, to the first and last term of the second equation.
To clearly see how it works, here's a step by step solution.
= (a)(a)
=a^2
First term of the first equation multiplied to the first term of the second equation.
=(a)(-b)
= -ab
First term of the first equation multiplied to the last term of the second equation.
=(b)(a)
=ab
Last term of the first equation multiplied to the first term of the second equation.
=(b)(-b)
= -b^2
Last term of the first equation multiplied to the fast term of the second equation.
=a^2 - ab + ab - b^2
= a^2 - b^2
Final answer:
= a^2 - b^2