Question

A binomial has been partially factored, as shown below:

x2 − 36 = (x + 6)(_____)

Which of the following binomials represents the missing factor?

Answer 1

( x- 6 )

Explanation:

I took the test and I got it right.

Answer 2

Answer: x-6

Explanation: x^2 is a DOTS, or difference of two squares. 36 is a perfect square and x^2 is a perfect square, and you are finding the difference. Therefore, you can do (x+6)(x-6). This works with any number. If there was x^2-16, it could be factored to (x+4)(x-4)