Question

factor.
$w^2 - 36$

Explanation:

Step1: Recognize difference of squares

The expression $w^2 - 36$ is a difference of squares, since $w^2=(w)^2$ and $36=(6)^2$. The formula for factoring a difference of squares is $a^2 - b^2=(a-b)(a+b)$.

Step2: Apply difference of squares formula

Substitute $a=w$ and $b=6$ into the formula:
$w^2 - 6^2=(w-6)(w+6)$

Answer:

$(w-6)(w+6)$