Question

question 36 of 40
kayla was asked to rewrite the polynomial expression ( x^2 - 14x + 49 ). how could she rewrite the polynomial?

a. ( (x - 7)(x + 7) )

b. ( (x + 7)(x + 7) )

c. ( (x - 7)(x - 7) )

d. ( (x + 7)(x + 2) )

Explanation:

Step1: Identify perfect square trinomial

The polynomial is $x^2 -14x +49$, matching $a^2 -2ab +b^2$.

Step2: Find a and b

$a=x$, $b=7$ (since $2ab=14x$ and $b^2=49$).

Step3: Factor as $(a-b)^2$

$(x-7)^2=(x-7)(x-7)$.

Answer:

C. $(x - 7)(x - 7)$