Factor: x^2 - 4.
A(x-2)(x+2)
B(x-2)(x-2)
C(x+2)(x+2)
D(x-4)(x+1)
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: A. (x-2)(x+2)
1. Check that the binomial fits the pattern: it is a difference, and both terms are perfect squares, since x squared is (x) squared and 4 is 2 squared.
2. Write the product of conjugates using a equals x and b equals 2.
3. Factor to get (x - 2)(x + 2), and check by multiplying: x squared + 2x - 2x - 4 gives back x squared - 4.
_Source: OpenStax Elementary Algebra (CC BY 4.0), Ch 7 "Factoring", section 7.4 Factor Special Products_
Related questions
Factor: x^3 + 64.According to the Sum and Difference of Cubes Pattern, how does a^3+b^3 factor?Factor completely: 36x^2y - 48xy + 16y.Factor completely: 8x^2y - 98y.Factor completely: 6x^2 + 96.What happens when you try to factor a sum of squares like a^2 + b^2?What is the completely factored form of x^4 - y^4?Factor: 100 - h^2.