Bill wants to factor x2 + 8x + 16 by grouping; however, Sara says it is a special product and can factor a different way. Using complete sentences, explain and demonstrate how both methods will result in the same factors.

Question

solomonzelman · Answer

$$x^2 + 8x + 16$$ think of it like this.$$x^2 + 8x + 4^2$$

solomonzelman · Answer

$$4 \times 4 = 16~~~~~~and~~~~~~~~~4+4=8$$

mathmale · Answer

Dear N:  Does "special product" ring a bell for you?  Might be worth looking that up in your textbook.