Math
Difference of squares.
Definition
The difference of squares is a factoring pattern where a² - b² factors into (a + b)(a - b). It applies whenever you subtract two perfect squares.
Examples
Real-world.
- 1 x² - 9 = (x + 3)(x - 3)
- 2 25y² - 16 = (5y + 4)(5y - 4)
- 3 Mentally computing 51 × 49 = 50² - 1² = 2499
Key Fact
a² - b² = (a + b)(a - b)