1. The problem is to perform factorization, which means expressing a mathematical expression as a product of its factors. 2. A common formula used in factorization is the difference of squares: $$a^2 - b^2 = (a - b)(a + b)$$. 3. Another important rule is factoring out the greatest common factor (GCF) from terms. 4. For example, to factorize $$x^2 - 9$$, recognize it as a difference of squares where $a = x$ and $b = 3$. 5. Applying the formula: $$x^2 - 9 = (x - 3)(x + 3)$$. 6. This shows the expression factored into two binomials. 7. Factorization helps simplify expressions and solve equations more easily.