Question

Angelina factored (x - 4)8 and wrote that it was equal to (x2 - 42)2(x2 + 42). Use complete sentences to explain how you could confirm whether Angela’s solution is correct. Prove your conclusion mathematically.

Answer 1

There are several ways to confirm that the two expressions are equal. One method is to simply factor the first expression and see it you get a result equal to the second expression. An easier method is to set a value for x and substitute it to the two expressions. If the resulting value is that same, this means that the two expressions are equal.