I need help I can't figure out this problem
(x+y)(x-y)
I used FOIL and got x^2 but I don't know if it's right cause it looks like the other numbers just cancel can some one help?

Question

I need help I can't figure out this problem
(x+y)(x-y)
I used FOIL and got x^2 but I don't know if it's right cause it looks like the other numbers just cancel can some one help?

texaschic101 · Answer

(x + y)(x - y)
x^2 - xy + xy -y^2
x^2 - y^2

anonymous · Answer

oh ok I see but wouldn't the y's cancel cause one is negative and the other is positive?

texaschic101 · Answer

no....you are multiplying them
y * -y = -y^2

texaschic101 · Answer

if you were adding them, they would cancel

anonymous · Answer

oh wow i feel stupid thanks dude

texaschic101 · Answer

lol.....no problem....don't feel stupid, everybody makes mistakes

anonymous · Answer

true but i have been stuck on this for weeks

texaschic101 · Answer

well...now you know...so it probably won't happen again :)