Math Help - Factoring question

36q²-17m²=
This was for a take home test and I can't find another problem like it in my text. Also, it's the only problem like this with two different bases. He might have made a mistake, but I'm not sure. If anyone could let me know that would be great. Thanks.

Originally Posted by wingcore

36q²-17m²=
This was for a take home test and I can't find another problem like it in my text. Also, it's the only problem like this with two different bases. He might have made a mistake, but I'm not sure. If anyone could let me know that would be great. Thanks.

how about thinking about this as the difference of two squares

36q^2 - 17m^2 = 6^2q^2 - (sqrt(17))^2m^2 = (6q)^2 - ((sqrt(17)m)^2 = (6q + sqrt(17)m)(6q - sqrt(17)m)

Thank you! I believe that is what he's looking for. Thanks again.

Originally Posted by wingcore

Thank you! I believe that is what he's looking for. Thanks again.

no problemo