Given that x ≠ y, simplify the expression (x^2 - y^2) / (x - y).

A x - y

B x + y

C 1

D (x - y)^2

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

The numerator (x^2 - y^2) is a difference of squares, which factors as (x - y)(x + y). So, the expression becomes [(x - y)(x + y)] / (x - y). Since x ≠ y, (x - y) can be canceled, leaving x + y.

💡 Why is B) the correct answer?

The correct answer to the question "Given that x ≠ y, simplify the expression (x^2 - y^2) / (x - y)." is Option B: x + y.

The other options — A) x - y, C) 1, D) (x - y)^2 — are incorrect for this GRE Exam Prep question. As explained above: The numerator (x^2 - y^2) is a difference of squares, which factors as (x - y)(x + y). So, the expression becomes [(x - y)(x + y)] / (x - y). Since x ≠ y, (x - y) can be canceled, leaving x + y.

📚 About This GRE Exam Prep Practice Question

This 1-level GRE Exam Prep question from the Quantitative Reasoning topic is part of BrainForge Quiz's free exam preparation library. Each question includes the correct answer and a detailed explanation to help you understand the underlying concept, not just memorize the answer.

How to use this page: Read the question above, consider all four options (A through D), then check the highlighted correct answer and explanation. For active timed practice, start a free GRE Exam Prep practice test or use flashcards for spaced repetition review.

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Given that x ≠ y, simplify the expression (x^2 - y^2) / (x - y).

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

📚 About This GRE Exam Prep Practice Question

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