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

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The expression b^2 - a^2 simplifies to (b - a)(b + a), which is known as the difference of squares. Dividing by (b - a) is valid only when a is not equal to b. Participants discuss the importance of understanding polynomial division in this context. Clarification is provided that the simplification process is valid under specific conditions. Overall, the discussion emphasizes the mathematical principles behind the difference of squares and polynomial division.
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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 ...

(a^2-b^2)=?

"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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