Let's learn how to factorize the expression 16 - y² step by step!
Step 1: Understand the expression
The expression is 16 - y². Here, 16 is a number (which is the same as 4 squared) and y² means y multiplied by itself.
Step 2: Recognize the difference of squares
This expression is called a difference of squares because it is a subtraction (difference) between two perfect squares: 16 (which is 4²) and y².
Step 3: Use the difference of squares formula
The formula for the difference of squares is:
a² - b² = (a + b)(a - b)
In our case, a is 4 (because 4² = 16) and b is y.
Step 4: Write the factorized form
Using the formula, we factor the expression:
16 - y² = (4 + y)(4 - y)
Final answer:
16 - y² = (4 + y)(4 - y)
This means we've successfully factorized the expression!