Question

factor the given polynomial.

\\-y^2 + 1 = \\

if the expression cannot be factored then answer with prime.

Explanation:

Rearrange the terms

Using the Difference of Squares knowledge point

$$ -y^2 + 1 = 1 - y^2 $$

Apply the difference of squares formula

Using the Difference of Squares and Complete Factoring knowledge points

$$ 1 - y^2 = (1 - y)(1 + y) $$

Alternative factoring by factoring out negative one

Using the Complete Factoring knowledge point

$$ -y^2 + 1 = -(y^2 - 1) = -(y - 1)(y + 1) $$

Answer:

Factor the given polynomial.

\( -y^2 + 1 = \) <blank>\((1-y)(1+y)\)</blank>

If the expression cannot be factored then answer with prime.