To solve the given expression \( c^2 - 81 \), we can recognize it as a difference of squares. The difference of squares formula is \( a^2 - b^2 = (a - b)(a + b) \). Here, \( a = c \) and \( b = 9 \).
Solution Approach
Identify the expression as a difference of squares.
Apply the difference of squares formula.
Step 1: Recognize the Expression as a Difference of Squares
The given expression is \( c^2 - 81 \). This can be identified as a difference of squares, which follows the formula:
\[ a^2 - b^2 = (a - b)(a + b) \]
Step 2: Apply the Difference of Squares Formula
In this case, \( a = c \) and \( b = 9 \). Therefore, we can rewrite the expression as:
\[ c^2 - 81 = (c - 9)(c + 9) \]
Step 3: Substitute the Given Value of \( c \)
Given \( c = 5 \), we substitute this value into the factored form:
\[ (5 - 9)(5 + 9) \]
Step 4: Simplify the Expression
Simplify the terms inside the parentheses:
\[ (5 - 9) = -4 \]
\[ (5 + 9) = 14 \]