In Exercises 39–48, factor the difference of two squares. 36x^2−49y^2

Key Concepts

Difference of Squares

The difference of squares is a specific algebraic identity that states that the expression a^2 - b^2 can be factored into (a - b)(a + b). This concept is crucial for simplifying expressions that fit this form, allowing for easier manipulation and solving of equations.

Factoring

Factoring is the process of breaking down an expression into simpler components, or factors, that when multiplied together yield the original expression. In the context of the difference of squares, it involves identifying the square roots of the terms involved and applying the difference of squares formula.

Quadratic Expressions

Quadratic expressions are polynomial expressions of the form ax^2 + bx + c, where a, b, and c are constants. In the case of the difference of squares, the expression is a specific type of quadratic where the middle term is absent, simplifying the factoring process to just the two squared terms.