What is the result of multiplying (a+b)(a-b)?

The expression (a+b)(a-b) represents the product of the sum and difference of two terms, which is a well-known algebraic identity. When you apply the distributive property or use the FOIL method (First, Outside, Inside, Last), you can clearly see how it expands:

1. First: Multiply the first terms in each binomial, which gives you ( a^2 ).
2. Outside: Multiply the outer terms, which results in ( -ab ).

3. Inside: Multiply the inner terms, which yields ( ab ).
4. Last: Multiply the last terms in each binomial, resulting in ( -b^2 ).

When you combine the products from the Outside and Inside steps (-ab + ab), those two terms cancel each other out. You are left with ( a^2 - b^2 ).

Thus, the result of multiplying (a+b)(a-b) is indeed ( a^2 - b^2 ), confirming the choice as the correct answer. This identity is often referred to as the difference of squares, which is a fundamental concept in algebra.