SOLUTION: Hi I would like to know if the sum of squares (x^2 +y^2) can be factored? Thank you for your time.

Algebra ->  Exponential-and-logarithmic-functions -> SOLUTION: Hi I would like to know if the sum of squares (x^2 +y^2) can be factored? Thank you for your time.      Log On


   

Question 164540: Hi I would like to know if the sum of squares (x^2 +y^2) can be factored? Thank you for your time.
Answer by jim_thompson5910(35256) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
It cannot be factored over the real numbers, but if you include complex numbers in the mix, then you can factor x%5E2+%2By%5E2


In this case, x%5E2+%2By%5E2 factors to %28x%2Byi%29%28x-yi%29. This is almost identical to the difference of squares but with an added "i" term.


If you have never heard of complex numbers or the "i" term, then the answer is you cannot factor x%5E2+%2By%5E2.