simplification of a mathematical expression
Check the final answer first, then review the worked steps.
Problem
simplification of a mathematical expression
Answer
\(x^2 - 1\)
Step-by-step solution
- Identify the expression: The problem is to simplify the given mathematical expression. The expression appears to be $(x-1)(x+1)$.
- Apply the difference of squares formula: The expression is in the form $(a-b)(a+b)$, which is a common algebraic identity known as the difference of squares. The formula states that $(a-b)(a+b) = a^2 - b^2$.
- Substitute and simplify: In this case, $a = x$ and $b = 1$. Applying the formula, we get $x^2 - 1^2$.
- Final simplification: Since $1^2 = 1$, the simplified expression is $x^2 - 1$.