How do you factor completely 2a24a2?

1 Answer
Oct 28, 2016

2a24a2=2(a13)(a1+3)

Explanation:

The difference of squares identity can be written:

A2B2=(AB)(A+B)

Use this with A=(a1) and B=3 as follows:

2a24a2=2(a22a2)

2a24a2=2(a22a+13)

2a24a2=2((a1)2(3)2)

2a24a2=2((a1)3)((a1)+3)

2a24a2=2(a13)(a1+3)