Question

multiply.
$(a - 6)(a + 6)$
simplify your answer.

Explanation:

Step1: Apply difference of squares rule

Recall that $(x-y)(x+y)=x^2-y^2$. Here $x=a$, $y=6$.

Step2: Substitute values into formula

$$a^2 - 6^2$$

Step3: Calculate the constant term

$$a^2 - 36$$

Answer:

$a^2 - 36$