The expression (q^n - 1)(q^n-1) represents a mathematical product involving powers of a variable q. Here, q^n - 1 indicates that q is raised to the power of n and then decreased by 1. This part of the expression is often used in algebra and number theory, particularly in the context of polynomial factorization. When multiplied by q^n-1, the entire expression can be simplified. The result is q^2n-1 - q^n-1, which combines the two components into a single polynomial. This type of manipulation is common in algebraic structures, such as polynomials and finite fields.