Question

find the square. simplify your answer.
(2a - 4)²

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the square formula

The formula for squaring a binomial \((x - y)^2\) is \(x^2 - 2xy + y^2\). Here, \(x = 2a\) and \(y = 4\).

Step2: Apply the formula

First, calculate \(x^2=(2a)^2 = 4a^2\). Then, calculate \(-2xy=-2\times(2a)\times4=-16a\). Finally, calculate \(y^2 = 4^2 = 16\).

Step3: Combine the terms

Combine the three terms from Step 2: \(4a^2-16a + 16\).

Answer:

\(4a^2 - 16a + 16\)