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Recall the formula a^2± 2ab+b^2=(a± b)^2.
- 4
We want to solve the given equation by factoring. We will have to factor a perfect square trinomial. a^2± 2ab+b^2 ⇔ (a± b)^2
Before we begin, let's rewrite the equation with all the non-zero terms on the left-hand side.
Since all the terms are on the left-hand side, we are ready to start factoring.
a^2+2ab+b^2=(a+b)^2
Split into factors
Now let's apply the Zero Product Property to solve.
Use the Zero Product Property
(I), (II): LHS-4=RHS-4
The only solution to this equation is x=- 4.
x= - 4
(- a)^2=a^2
Calculate power
a(- b)=- a * b
Add and subtract terms
Since substituting and simplifying resulted in a true statement, we know that x=- 4 is a solution of the equation.