Question

Write as a polynomial: (12a^3–7x)(−12a^3–7x)

Answer 1

-144a^6 + 49x^2

Explanation:

(12a^3 - 7x)(-12a^3 - 7x) =

Factor -1 out of the second binomial.

= (12a^3 - 7x)(-1)(12a^3 + 7x)

= -(12a^3 - 7x)(12a^3 + 7x)

After the first negative sign, you have the product of a sum and a difference:

(a + b)(a - b) = a^2 - b^2

= -(144a^6 - 49x^2)

Now, distribute the negative sign.

= -144a^6 + 49x^2