Difference of Perfect Squares
A Difference of Perfect Squares is a special class of binomial where:
1. Coefficients are perfect squares.
2. Constants are perfect squares.
3. Powers on variable terms are even.
16x2-81 is a perfect square
8x2-81 is not a perfect square, because 8 is not a perfect square
How to factor a binomial that is the difference of perfect squares?
Algebra rule:
To factors the difference of two perfect squares, use the following pattern:
a2-b2=(a+b)(a-b)
The sum of two perfect squares, a2+b2, is nonfactorable over the integers.
Factor x
2-16
x2-16=(x-4)(x+4)
Factor x
6-4y
2
x6-4y2=(x3-2y)(x3+2y)
