Use the difference of squares pattern to factor the polynomial. $x ^ { 2 } - 36 y ^ { 2 }$
A) ( x $-$ 6 y ) ( x $-$ 36 y )
B) ( x $-$ 36 y ) ( x + 36 y )
C) ( x $-$ 6 y ) ( x + 6 y )
D) ( x + 6 y ) ( x + 36 y )
E) none of these

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The difference of squares pattern states that a$^2$-b$^2$ can be factored as (a+b)(a-b). In this case, a is x and b is 6y. Therefore, the expression x$^2$-36y$^2$ can be factored as (x+6y)(x-6y). However, option C has a factor of 6 common in both terms, which can be factored out to get (x+6y)(x-6y), making it the best choice.

Use the Difference of Squares Pattern to Factor the Polynomial x2−36y2x ^ { 2 } - 36 y ^ { 2 }x2−36y2

Use the Difference of Squares Pattern to Factor the Polynomial $x ^ { 2 } - 36 y ^ { 2 }$