This mathematics problem involves applying core mathematical principles and formulas. Below you will find a complete step-by-step solution with detailed explanations for each step, helping you understand not just the answer but the method behind it.
ScanSolve AI Answer
Let's simplify the expression (x² - 9) / (x - 3). Step 1: Identify the expression. The given expression is (x² - 9) / (x - 3). Step 2: Factor the numerator. The numerator, x² - 9, is a difference of squares. The formula for the difference of squares is a² - b² = (a - b)(a + b). Here, a = x and b = 3. So, x² - 9 = (x - 3)(x + 3). Step 3: Substitute the factored numerator back into the expression. (x² - 9) / (x - 3) = [(x - 3)(x + 3)] / (x - 3) Step 4: Cancel out the common term. We can cancel out the (x - 3) term from both the numerator and the denominator, provided x ≠ 3. [(x - 3)(x + 3)] / (x - 3) = x + 3 Step 5: State the simplified expression. The simplified expression is x + 3. Answer: The simplified expression is x + 3. What's next? 📸