(a-b)(a+b)+(b-c)(b+c)+(c-a)(c+a)=0

2 min read Jun 16, 2024
(a-b)(a+b)+(b-c)(b+c)+(c-a)(c+a)=0

The Elegance of (a-b)(a+b)+(b-c)(b+c)+(c-a)(c+a)=0

This equation may seem complex at first glance, but it hides a simple and beautiful mathematical truth. Let's break it down:

Recognizing the Pattern

The equation consists of three terms, each in the form of (x - y)(x + y). This pattern is crucial because it represents the difference of squares factorization:

(x - y)(x + y) = x² - y²

Applying the Difference of Squares

Applying this to our original equation, we get:

  • (a - b)(a + b) = a² - b²
  • (b - c)(b + c) = b² - c²
  • (c - a)(c + a) = c² - a²

Substituting these back into the original equation:

(a² - b²) + (b² - c²) + (c² - a²) = 0

Simplifying the Equation

Notice that all the squared terms cancel each other out:

  • a² - a² = 0
  • b² - b² = 0
  • c² - c² = 0

This leaves us with:

0 + 0 + 0 = 0

Conclusion

The equation (a-b)(a+b)+(b-c)(b+c)+(c-a)(c+a)=0 holds true for any values of a, b, and c. This is because the difference of squares pattern allows for elegant simplification, ultimately resulting in a trivial equality. This equation demonstrates the power of recognizing patterns in mathematics and how it can lead to beautiful and insightful results.

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