Algebra 1 · Factoring
Difference of Squares
Algebra 1 · Factoring
Definition
A difference of squares is a binomial a^2 - b^2 that factors as (a + b)(a - b).
Examples
- x^2 - 16 = (x + 4)(x - 4).
- x^2 - 25 = (x + 5)(x - 5).
Key rule
Factor a^2 - b^2 into conjugate binomials.
Memory hook
Difference of squares splits into plus and minus twins.