Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
0. Review of Algebra
Factoring Polynomials
4:12 minutes
Problem 109b
Textbook Question
Textbook QuestionFactor by any method. See Examples 1–7. (x+y)^3-(x-y)^3
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Difference of Cubes
The expression given involves the difference of two cubes, which can be factored using the formula a^3 - b^3 = (a - b)(a^2 + ab + b^2). In this case, (x+y)^3 and (x-y)^3 are the cubes, where a = (x+y) and b = (x-y). Recognizing this pattern is essential for simplifying the expression.
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Binomial Expansion
The binomial expansion theorem allows us to expand expressions of the form (a + b)^n. For n = 3, the expansion is given by (x+y)^3 = x^3 + 3x^2y + 3xy^2 + y^3. Understanding how to apply this theorem is crucial for rewriting the cubes in the expression before factoring.
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Factoring Techniques
Factoring is the process of breaking down an expression into simpler components, or factors, that when multiplied together yield the original expression. Techniques such as grouping, using special products, and recognizing patterns like the difference of squares or cubes are vital for effectively simplifying algebraic expressions.
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