Problem 3 of 7
Factor the difference of squares (x+1)^2-16.
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recognize a^2-b^2=(a-b)(a+b).
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Expression must be a difference of two square terms.
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Solution
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1. Identify each square term as a^2 and b^2.
2. Apply a^2-b^2=(a-b)(a+b).
3. Check by multiplying conjugates.
Use the worked steps, then substitute the final answer back into the original relationship to confirm it satisfies the prompt.
Factoring sums of squares over the reals as difference of squares.