Factor x^2-9

Problem

x squared minus 9

Solution

1. Identify the expression as a difference of two squares, which follows the pattern a squared minus b squared

2. Determine the values of a and b by taking the square root of each term.

3. Calculate a equals the square root of x squared equals x

4. Calculate b equals the square root of 9 equals 3

5. Apply the formula for the difference of squares: a squared minus b squared equals open paren a minus b close paren times open paren a plus b close paren

6. Substitute the values of a and b into the formula.

Final Answer

x squared minus 9 equals open paren x minus 3 close paren times open paren x plus 3 close paren

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