Recognize difference of squares: Determine the appropriate method to factor z2−16. We recognize that z2−16 is a difference of squares because it can be written in the form a2−b2, where a=z and b=4 (since 42=16).
Write expression in correct form: Write z2−16 as a difference of squares.z2=z×z=(z)216=4×4=42Therefore, z2−16 can be expressed as (z)2−42.
Apply difference of squares formula: Apply the difference of squares formula to factor the expression.The difference of squares formula is a2−b2=(a−b)(a+b).Using this formula, we get (z)2−42=(z−4)(z+4).
Write final factored form: Write the final factored form of z2−16. The factored form of z2−16 is (z−4)(z+4).
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