For x ≠ 6, which expression is equivalent to (x² - 36)/(x - 6)?

Factor the numerator as a difference of squares: $x^2 - 36 = (x - 6)(x + 6)$. Then $\frac{(x-6)(x+6)}{x-6} = x + 6$ for $x \neq 6$, choice C. Choice A ($x - 6$) keeps the factor that was canceled. Choice B ($x^2 - 6$) comes from dividing only the 36 by 6 and leaving $x^2$ untouched. Choice D ($x + 36$) comes from dividing $x^2$ by $x$ and leaving 36 alone. Only common factors can be canceled, not individual terms of a sum or difference.