Why is x^2 - 36 not (x - 6)(x - 6)?
x^2 - 36 looks like an ordinary binomial, but it carries a special pattern. A difference of two squares always factors into a sum times a difference.
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1 lesson for “Difference of two squares”
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Why can't I just add the two legs?
Frida found the hypotenuse of a right triangle with legs 6 and 8 by adding 6 + 8 = 14. The lengths must be squared first.
Try this lessonWhat do you add to make x^2 + 6x a perfect square?
A perfect square like (x + 3)^2 is easy to solve. Completing the square builds one on purpose, right in the middle of an equation.
Try this lessonWhat is (x^2 - 9)/(x^2 + 5x + 6) in lowest terms?
A fraction like this simplifies only after you factor the top and the bottom. Cancellation happens between factors, never between single terms.
Try this lessonWhy does a Punnett square have four boxes?
You said each parent donates both of its alleles. The two alleles separate, and each parent passes on just one for the trait.
Try this lessonWhen two nonmetals meet, do they share or transfer?
Hydrogen cannot pull an electron away from hydrogen, so the two atoms do something smarter: they share. Count the pairs.
Try this lessonWhich move comes first?
Isla solved 3x + 4 = 19 by writing 3x = 23, giving x = 23/3. She never removed the +4 before dividing.
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