Some of the steps in the derivation of the quadratic formula are shown. Step 3: –c StartFraction b squared Over 4 a EndFraction = a(x squared StartFraction b Over a EndFraction x StartFraction b squared Over 4 a squared EndFraction) Step 4a: –c StartFraction b squared Over 4 a EndFraction = a(x StartFraction b Over 2 a EndFraction) squared Step 4b: negative StartFraction 4 a c Over 4 a EndFraction StartFraction b squared Over 4 a EndFraction = a(x StartFraction b Over 2 a EndFraction) squared Which best explains or justifies Step 4b? factoring a polynomial multiplication property of equality converting to a common denominator addition property of equality.