Question

perform the operations and simplify.
$(a - 2)^2$

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the formula for squaring a binomial

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

Step2: Apply the formula

Substitute \(x = a\) and \(y = 2\) into the formula:
\((a - 2)^2 = a^2 - 2\times a\times2 + 2^2\)

Step3: Simplify the terms

Simplify each term: \(a^2 - 4a + 4\)

Answer:

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