Topic Details (Notes format)

How to Factor the Sum or Difference of Cubes

Subject: Mathematics

Book: Maths Mastery

Sum of cubes a³ + b³ factors into (a + b)(a² – ab + b²), while difference of cubes a³ – b³ factors into (a – b)(a² + ab + b²). For instance, x³ – 8 = (x – 2)(x² + 2x + 4). These patterns appear frequently in polynomial algebra and advanced factorization tasks. You’ll see them in integral calculus (factoring integrands), economic models (cubic cost functions), and more. Knowing how to handle sums/differences of cubes fosters swift resolution of higher-order polynomial problems.

Practice Questions

A sum of money triples itself in 12 years at simple interest. What is the rate of interest per annum?

View Question

If 2x = 16, what is the value of x?

View Question

If a:b = 7:9 and b:c = 5:6, what is a:c?

View Question

If 2a + b = 10 and a - b = 4, what is the value of a?

View Question

What is the sum of the first 50 positive integers?

View Question

A train 120 meters long is moving at a speed of 54 km/h. How long will it take to pass a pole?

View Question

What is the remainder when 5^100 is divided by 3?

View Question

A number is increased by 20% and then decreased by 20%. What is the net change?

View Question

A square is inscribed in a circle with a radius of 5 cm. What is the area of the square?

View Question

If the sum of the angles of a polygon is 1080°, how many sides does the polygon have?

View Question