answersLogoWhite

0

[ x8 - 5x2 ] is not the difference of two squares. [ 5x2 ] is not really a square.

If you do have the difference of two squares, then:

-- Take the square roots of the two terms.

-- The factored form is (sum of the square roots) times (difference of the square roots)

Example:

Let's use . . . [ x8 - 9x2 ] .

The square roots of the terms are . . . [ x4 ] and [ 3x ] .

The factored form is (x4 + 3x) (x4- 3x).

Go ahead and FOIL those factors out and you'll see.

With this particular example, you could also continue, and

factor 'x' out of each of these factors, to wind up with

x2 (x3 + 3) (x3 - 3)

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago

Still curious? Ask our experts.

Chat with our AI personalities

TaigaTaiga
Every great hero faces trials, and you—yes, YOU—are no exception!
Chat with Taiga
RafaRafa
There's no fun in playing it safe. Why not try something a little unhinged?
Chat with Rafa
FranFran
I've made my fair share of mistakes, and if I can help you avoid a few, I'd sure like to try.
Chat with Fran
More answers

5 is not a square number. That factors to x^2(x^6 - 5)

User Avatar

Wiki User

9y ago
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: How do you factor the difference of two squares x8-5x2?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp