Factoring Expressions (Difference of Two Squares)

Related Topics:
Common Core (Algebra)
Common Core for Mathematics


Examples, solutions, videos, and lessons to help High School students learn to use the structure of an expression to identify ways to rewrite it. For example, see x⁴ − y⁴ as (x²)² − (y²)², thus recognizing it as a difference of squares that can be factored as (x² − y²)(x² + y²).

Suggested Learning Targets

• Use factoring techniques such as common factors, grouping, the difference of two squares, the sum or difference of two cubes, or a combination of methods to factor completely.
• Simplify expressions including combining like terms, using the distributive property and other operations with polynomials.

Common Core: HSA-SSE.A.2

The following diagram shows the formula and some examples for factoring difference of perfect squares. Scroll down the page for more examples and solutions of factoring difference of perfect squares.

Difference of Two Squares

Factoring the Difference of Two Perfect Squares
Factoring an expression with two perfect squares (like x-squared minus 4).

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Factoring difference of squares.

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Factoring the Difference of Two Squares - Ex 1.

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Factoring the Difference of Two Squares - Ex 2.

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Factoring the Difference of Two Squares - Ex 3.

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Factoring a Difference of Squares
This video explains how to factor a difference of squares.

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