MHB Should I Square Both Trinomials in This Factoring Problem?

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The discussion focuses on factoring the expression (5a^2 - 11a + 10)^2 - (4a^2 - 15a + 6)^2 using the difference of squares method. Participants confirm that squaring both trinomials is unnecessary; instead, they should recognize the expression as x^2 - y^2, where x = (5a^2 - 11a + 10) and y = (4a^2 - 15a + 6). The correct approach involves applying the formula (x - y)(x + y) and then back-substituting to combine like terms.

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Factor

(5a^2 - 11a + 10)^2 - (4a^2 - 15a + 6)^2

Must I square both trinomials as step 1?
 
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No, you are given a difference of squares...:D
 
Let x = (5a^2 - 11a + 10)

Let y = (4a^2 - 15a + 6)

x^2 - y^2

(x - y)(x + y)

Back-substitute next, correct?
 
RTCNTC said:
Let x = (5a^2 - 11a + 10)

Let y = (4a^2 - 15a + 6)

x^2 - y^2

(x - y)(x + y)

Back-substitute next, correct?

Yes, then combine like terms. :D
 
I am learning a lot thanks to you and this website.
 

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