To factor the expression $16x^2 - 25$, we can recognize it as a difference of squares. The general formula for factoring a difference of squares is:

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

In this case:

• $16x^2$ can be written as $(4x)^2$.
• $25$ can be written as $5^2$.

So we have:

$16x^2 - 25 = (4x)^2 - (5)^2$

Applying the difference of squares formula:

$16x^2 - 25 = (4x + 5)(4x - 5)$

Thus, the factored form is:

$(4x + 5)(4x - 5)$

Would you like a further breakdown of each step, or do you have any questions?

Here are some related questions for further practice:

1. How would you factor $9x^2 - 49$?
2. What is the factored form of $25x^2 - 1$?
3. Can you apply the difference of squares to factor $36y^2 - 49$?
4. What is the factored result of $49x^2 - 64y^2$?
5. How do you recognize a difference of squares in an expression?

Tip: Always check if an expression is a difference of squares by identifying whether both terms are perfect squares and if there is a subtraction between them.