Chapter 5: Problem 28
Find each product. See Example 2. $$ (5 t+4)(5 t-4) $$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The product is \(25t^2 - 16\).
Step by step solution
01
Recognize the Formula
Identify the algebraic structure in the expression \((5t+4)(5t-4)\). This is a difference of squares, where \(a = 5t\) and \(b = 4\). Recall that the difference of squares formula is \((a + b)(a - b) = a^2 - b^2\).
02
Apply the Difference of Squares Formula
Apply the formula to the expression: \((a + b)(a - b) = a^2 - b^2\). In this case, substitute \(a = 5t\) and \(b = 4\) into the formula: \((5t)^2 - 4^2\).
03
Calculate Each Square
First calculate \((5t)^2\) which is equivalent to \(5^2 \cdot t^2 = 25t^2\). Then calculate \(4^2\) which equals \(16\).
04
Compute the Final Product
Subtract the second square from the first: \(25t^2 - 16\). This is the simplified result of the expression \((5t+4)(5t-4)\).
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Algebraic Expressions
Algebraic expressions are combinations of numbers, variables, and operators that together represent a mathematical relationship or quantity. In this context, expressions can be simple, like a single term, or more complex, as in polynomials. Understanding algebraic expressions is crucial for solving various types of mathematical problems. Here’s what to remember about algebraic expressions:
- Terms: These are the building blocks of expressions. Each term consists of a coefficient (a numerical value) and one or more variables raised to a power.
- Variables: Symbols that represent unknown values in expressions and equations, often denoted by letters like \(t\), \(x\), or \(y\).
- Operators: Symbols such as \(+\), \(-\), \(\times\), and \(\div\) used to combine terms in expressions.
Multiplying Polynomials
Multiplying polynomials involves combining each term from one polynomial with every term in another polynomial. This process results in a new polynomial. The key is to use distributive property, often required when dealing with larger expressions:
- Distributive Property: Apply each term of one polynomial to every term of the other. It ensures all possible products of terms are considered, resulting in the final expanded polynomial.
- Common Mistakes: Forgetting to multiply each term by the others or neglecting correct exponent rules can lead to incorrect products.
Simplifying Expressions
Simplifying expressions is the practice of rewriting them in a more manageable or reduced form, making them easier to understand and solve. Simplification often involves combining like terms or reducing fractions and expressions:
- Combine Like Terms: Terms with the same variable and power should be combined to simplify the expression.
- Use of Formulas: Utilization of algebraic identities such as the difference of squares can facilitate simplification. - As seen with \((5t+4)(5t-4)\), applying \(a^2 - b^2\) reduces the expression swiftly to a cleaner \(25t^2 - 16\).