i need to solve by factoring
2006-11-14 11:51:54 · 5 answers · asked by chelsea y 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Mathematics
(a^2 -2ab + b^2) = (a-b)(a-b) = (a-b)^2
You cannot cancel anything, so
(a^2 -2ab + b^2)/(a+b) does not simplify.
You cannot solve for anything because you do not have an equation.
2006-11-14 11:55:05 · answer #1 · answered by MsMath 7 · 5⤊ 4⤋
If you meant to have a plus sign in front of 2ab, this simplifies to a+b. Otherwise this doesn't simplify as the numerator is just the square of a-b.
2006-11-14 19:57:49 · answer #2 · answered by maegical 4 · 4⤊ 0⤋
Chelsea, factor the top
a^2 - 2ab + b^2 = (a-b)(a-b)=(a-b)^2
(a+b) cannot be simplified.
To solve you need to equate it to something like zero say.
2006-11-14 19:56:38 · answer #3 · answered by Jim C 3 · 5⤊ 0⤋
Your first parenthesis factors into ( (a-b)(a-b). Since (a+b) doesn't cancel out with either of those, your problem is in its most simplified form. But double chekc the signs - maybe the denominator has a minus in it. In that case, your answer would be a-b
2006-11-14 19:57:40 · answer #4 · answered by MollyMAM 6 · 2⤊ 1⤋
(a^2- 2ab +b^2)= (a - b ) ^2
since denominator is (a+b)
answer is
(a-b) ^ 2/ (a+b)
2006-11-16 16:17:15 · answer #5 · answered by ? 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋