Math Problem Statement

Multiply (c + 6)(c - 6) and simplify your answer.

Solution

The problem asks us to multiply and simplify the expression:

(c+6)(c6)(c + 6)(c - 6)

This expression is a difference of squares. The formula for multiplying binomials of the form (a+b)(ab)(a + b)(a - b) is:

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

Here, a=ca = c and b=6b = 6. Substituting these values into the formula:

(c+6)(c6)=c262(c + 6)(c - 6) = c^2 - 6^2

Simplify 626^2:

c262=c236c^2 - 6^2 = c^2 - 36

The simplified answer is:

c236c^2 - 36

Would you like additional details or have any questions? Here are some related questions to consider:

  1. What is the difference of squares formula, and why does it work?
  2. How do you recognize when an expression is a difference of squares?
  3. Can this type of simplification be reversed, and how would you factor c236c^2 - 36?
  4. How does this technique apply to solving quadratic equations?
  5. What happens if the numbers in the binomials are not integers (e.g., (c+x)(cx)(c + x)(c - x))?

Tip: Always look for special patterns like the difference of squares when multiplying binomials—they simplify your work!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Difference of Squares

Formulas

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

Theorems

Difference of Squares Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10