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Sum times difference

Mathematics — first biennium · Lesson

Notable products · 1

Sum times difference: see what cancels

Do not start by memorizing the formula. Expand the general product: the two mixed products have equal magnitude and opposite signs, so they cancel. What remains is the square of the first term minus the square of the second.

Formula matematica
Verified pattern
Formula matematica

The mixed terms +ab and −ab disappear because their sum is zero.

What you need to know before the exercises

In this lesson: Understand and apply (a+b)(a-b)=a²-b² by recognizing cancellation of the mixed products.

You can already assume: Multiplying polynomials.

Try it now

Recognize the structure and calculate

Guided

Completed exercises: 0/5 · Correct on first attempt: 0

Guide
  1. Identify the term that appears unchanged in both binomials.
  2. Compute its square.
  3. The mixed products cancel: subtract the square of the other term.
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Formula matematica
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Formula matematica
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What you need to know for Sum times difference

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Current topic Strong skill Review due Needs reinforcement To be mastered Optional support

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