Question

an expression in the form $a^2 - b^2$ is known as the ______ of two squares.
a practical application of factoring differences of two squares is in the field of ______ engineering.

Explanation:

1. The algebraic form $a^2 - b^2$ is defined as the difference of two squares, as it represents the subtraction (difference) of two squared terms.
2. Factoring differences of two squares is commonly used in electrical engineering, for example, in simplifying equations related to circuit analysis and signal processing.

Answer:

1. difference
2. electrical