Algebraic Identities
Algebraic identities are foundational equations in algebra that maintain their truth regardless of the values assigned to the variables. Understanding these identities is crucial for simplifying algebraic expressions, solving equations, and facilitating effective computations. This section covers several common and important identities:
- Square of a Sum:
$(a + b)^2 = a^2 + 2ab + b^2$
This identity expands the expression for the square of a binomial.
- Square of a Difference:
$(a - b)^2 = a^2 - 2ab + b^2$
This expansion shows how the square of a difference can simplify calculations.
- Difference of Squares:
$a^2 - b^2 = (a - b)(a + b)$
This identity is useful for factoring expressions involving the difference of two squares.
- Product of a Sum and a Variable:
$(x + a)(x + b) = x^2 + (a + b)x + ab$
This represents the multiplication of two binomials, resulting in a quadratic expression.
- Cube of a Sum:
$(x + a)^3 = x^3 + 3ax^2 + 3a^2x + a^3$
This identity is essential for expanding the cube of a binomial.
- Cube of a Difference:
$(x - a)^3 = x^3 - 3ax^2 + 3a^2x - a^3$
This shows how to expand the cube of a difference.
Recognizing and applying these identities are vital for tackling more complex algebraic problems and for learning about further algebraic concepts.