Bump in the Right Direction: Simplifying b^2-a^2

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the algebraic expression b2 - a2 and its simplification. Participants are exploring the concept of the difference of squares and its implications in algebraic manipulation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster questions the validity of their simplification of the expression and seeks clarification on the process. Other participants suggest expanding the expression and exploring the difference of squares. There is also a mention of polynomial division and the condition that a must not equal b.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing various insights and suggestions for further exploration. There is no explicit consensus, but multiple approaches are being considered, indicating a productive exchange of ideas.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of the condition that a is not equal to b for certain simplifications to hold true. The original poster expresses uncertainty about their understanding of the simplification process.

montoyas7940
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b^2-a^2
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b-a simplifies to a+b
I didn't think I could simply divide because of the subtraction.
Is that how this is simplified ?
If not then please give me a bump in the right direction.
 
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expand this for me ...

[tex](a^2-b^2)=?[/tex]

"Difference of squares ..."
 
Find out what you get by multiplying b-a and b+a.
 
do you know polynomial division? (btw, your result is valid only when a is not equal to b)
 
Argggh! Thanks everyone!
 

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