Algebra
Basic

Difference of Squares

Factors the difference of two perfect squares.

Formula

a2−b2=(a+b)(a−b)a^2 - b^2 = (a+b)(a-b)

Variables

a, bAny real numbers

Example

25 - 9 = (5+3)(5-3) = 16

Did You Know?

This identity is a favorite mental-math shortcut: 47×53 = 50² − 3² = 2500 − 9 = 2491.

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