%5E3-a%5E3-b%5E3-c%5E3%3D3(a%2Bb)(b%2Bc)(c%2Ba).jpeg "(a+b+c)^3-a^3-b^3-c^3=3(a+b)(b+c)(c+a)")
Exploring the Identity: (a+b+c)^3 - a^3 - b^3 - c^3 = 3(a+b)(b+c)(c+a)
This article delves into the fascinating mathematical identity: (a+b+c)^3 - a^3 - b^3 - c^3 = 3(a+b)(b+c)(c+a). We will explore its proof, discuss its applications, and highlight its importance in various mathematical contexts.
Understanding the Identity
The identity states that the difference between the cube of the sum of three variables (a, b, and c) and the sum of their individual cubes is equal to three times the product of the sums of each pair of variables. This seemingly complex expression holds true for any values of a, b, and c.
Proof of the Identity
We can prove this identity using algebraic manipulation:
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Expand the left side: (a + b + c)³ = (a + b + c)(a + b + c)(a + b + c) Expanding this product, we get: a³ + b³ + c³ + 3a²b + 3a²c + 3ab² + 3ac² + 3b²c + 3bc² + 6abc
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Simplify the expression: (a + b + c)³ - a³ - b³ - c³ = 3a²b + 3a²c + 3ab² + 3ac² + 3b²c + 3bc² + 6abc
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Factor out 3: 3(a²b + a²c + ab² + ac² + b²c + bc² + 2abc)
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Group the terms: 3[(a²b + ab² + abc) + (a²c + ac² + abc) + (b²c + bc² + abc)]
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Factor out common factors: 3[ab(a + b + c) + ac(a + b + c) + bc(a + b + c)]
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Final factorization: 3(a + b + c)(ab + ac + bc)
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Recognize the product: 3(a + b)(b + c)(c + a)
Therefore, we have proven the identity: (a+b+c)^3 - a^3 - b³ - c³ = 3(a+b)(b+c)(c+a)
Applications of the Identity
This identity finds applications in various areas of mathematics:
- Algebraic manipulation: It allows simplification of complex expressions involving cubes of sums.
- Polynomial factorization: It provides a convenient way to factor polynomials of the form (a+b+c)³.
- Geometric problems: It can be used to solve problems related to volumes of solids.
Importance and Significance
The identity (a+b+c)^3 - a^3 - b³ - c³ = 3(a+b)(b+c)(c+a) is a fundamental result in algebra. Its elegance and wide applicability make it a valuable tool for mathematicians, students, and anyone working with algebraic expressions. Understanding this identity can lead to a deeper understanding of algebraic relationships and contribute to problem-solving in various mathematical domains.