SOLUTION: It asks to factor the following. a^2-9. I had a difficult time with this one. I would really appreciate the help!

Question 147452This question is from textbook algebra
: It asks to factor the following. a^2-9. I had a difficult time with this one. I would really appreciate the help! This question is from textbook algebra

Answer by jim_thompson5910(35256) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Start with the given expression

Rewrite as

Rewrite as

Now use the difference of squares. Remember, the difference of squares formula is where in this case and

Plug in and

So the expression

factors to

Notice that if you foil the factored expression, you get the original expression. This verifies our answer.
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