Which method is correct when finding the product of (x - 3)2? Justify your answer in complete sentences.

Method 1 Method 2
(x - 3)2
(x - 3)2
(x - 3)(x - 3)
x2 - 32
x2 - 6x + 9
x2 - 9

Question

Which method is correct when finding the product of (x - 3)2? Justify your answer in complete sentences.

Method 1      Method 2
(x - 3)2
                       (x - 3)2
(x - 3)(x - 3)
                         x2 - 32
x2 - 6x + 9
                          x2 - 9

anonymous · Answer

Is that $$(x-3)^2$$
?

anonymous · Answer

If so, method one is the correct way to find the product, since (x-3) is in parentheses, the entire thing needs to be squared and will leave you with a quadratic equation.