Math Problem Statement

Solve 38^2 - 32^2.

Solution

The expression in the image is:

38232238^2 - 32^2

This is a difference of squares, which follows the formula:

a2b2=(ab)(a+b)a^2 - b^2 = (a - b)(a + b)

Here, a=38a = 38 and b=32b = 32, so we can rewrite the expression as:

382322=(3832)(38+32)38^2 - 32^2 = (38 - 32)(38 + 32)

Now, let's compute:

3832=6and38+32=7038 - 32 = 6 \quad \text{and} \quad 38 + 32 = 70

Thus:

382322=6×70=42038^2 - 32^2 = 6 \times 70 = 420

The final result is:

382322=42038^2 - 32^2 = 420

Would you like more details or have any questions? Here are five related questions to deepen understanding:

  1. What is the general form of the difference of squares?
  2. Can you simplify 49235249^2 - 35^2 using the same method?
  3. How would you expand (ab)(a+b)(a - b)(a + b) to show that it's equal to a2b2a^2 - b^2?
  4. What other factorization formulas are commonly used in algebra?
  5. How can this technique be applied to larger or more complex numbers?

Tip: Whenever you see a difference of squares, factor it immediately to simplify your calculations!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Difference of Squares

Formulas

a^2 - b^2 = (a - b)(a + b)

Theorems

Difference of Squares

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9