Q. \[ x^2 – 4 \]

Answer

We factor the expression \(x^2-4\) as a difference of squares.

\[
x^2-4=(x-2)(x+2)
\]

So the solutions to \(x^2-4=0\) are \(x=2\) and \(x=-2\).

Detailed Explanation

We are given the expression \(x^2 – 4\). Our goal is usually to simplify it by factoring it (because \(x^2 – 4\) is a difference of squares).

Step 1: Recognize a difference of squares

Recall the identity:

\[
a^2 – b^2 = (a-b)(a+b)
\]

Rewrite \(x^2 – 4\) in the form \(a^2 – b^2\).

Match terms:

  • \(a^2 = x^2\) so \(a = x\).

  • \(b^2 = 4\) so \(b = 2\) (since \(2^2 = 4\)).

Step 2: Apply the identity

Substitute \(a = x\) and \(b = 2\) into the formula \(a^2 – b^2 = (a-b)(a+b)\).

\[
x^2 – 4 = (x-2)(x+2)
\]

Final Answer

\[
x^2 – 4 = (x-2)(x+2)
\]

See full solution

Graph

image
Need help with math? Try our AI homework tools today!
Homework Helper

Algebra FAQ

What are the roots of \(x^2-4=0\)?

Solve \(x^2=4\), so \(x=\pm 2\).

Can \(x^2-4\) be factored?

Yes. \(x^2-4=(x-2)(x+2)\).

What is the vertex form of \(x^2-4\)?

It is \(x^2-4=(x-0)^2-4\), so the vertex is \((0,-4)\).

Does \(x^2-4\) have a real \(y\)-intercept?

Yes. At \(x=0\), \(y=0^2-4=-4\), so intercept is \((0,-4)\).

What are the sign intervals of \(x^2-4\)?

Using factor form: \(x^2-4>0\) for \(x<-2\) or \(x>2\); \(x^2-4<0\) for \(-2

Solve \(x^2-4>0\).

\(x^2>4\) implies \(x<-2\) or \(x>2\). In interval notation: \((-\infty,-2)\cup(2,\infty)\).

What is the derivative of \(x^2-4\)?

\(\frac{d}{dx}(x^2-4)=2x\).

What is the definite integral \(\int (x^2-4)\,dx\)?

\(\int (x^2-4)\,dx=\frac{x^3}{3}-4x+C\).
Solve x^2-4 with these tools.
Pick one to get instant help.
image
298,376+ active customers
Math, Geometry, Trigonometry, etc.
top
Upgrade to Edubrain Premium
Unlimited help across all subjects
$16
$3.99
/week
Core benefits:
  • ok Unlimited AI homework help
  • ok A+ quality answers
  • ok Faster responses, no limits
Tools:
  • ok Notes generator
  • ok Diagram generator
  • ok AI detector and humanizer
Extras:
  • ok Ad-free experience
  • ok Share responses with others
  • ok Advanced reasoning
expert
Expert-level help at discounted prices
Cancel anytime
Star
4.6Trusted by 14,623 students
🚀 Upgrade Plan
You’ve reached the free limit of 5 slides.
To generate a full presentation, please subscribe.
Unlock with subscription:
  • ok Unlimited slide generation for presentations
  • ok AI-designed, well-structured slide content
  • ok Faster workflow for bigger decks
-
Plus, get unlimited access to:
  • ok Diagram Generator, Flashcard Maker, Notes Generator, Research Assistant, Answer Generator, AI Homework Helper & AI Detector
  • ok Discounted designer expert help
Star
4.6Trusted by 14,623 students