Use polynomial identities to factor the polynomials or simplify the expressions.
The objective is to simplify two numerical expressions, \(8^3 - 2^3\) and \(10^3 + 5^3\), using polynomial identities for the sum and difference of cubes. Polynomial identities are algebraic formulas that allow us to expand or factor expressions more efficiently. For this problem, we use:
These identities provide a structured way to evaluate expressions that involve cubes.
To simplify \(8^3 - 2^3\), we identify \(a = 8\) and \(b = 2\). Applying the difference of cubes identity:
\[8^3 - 2^3 = (8 - 2)(8^2 + 8 \cdot 2 + 2^2)\]
Now, we perform the arithmetic inside the parentheses:
\[(8 - 2) = 6\]
\[(8^2 + 8 \cdot 2 + 2^2) = (64 + 16 + 4) = 84\]
Multiplying these results:
\[6 \times 84 = 504\]
Thus, \(8^3 - 2^3 = 504\).
To simplify \(10^3 + 5^3\), we identify \(a = 10\) and \(b = 5\). Applying the sum of cubes identity:
\[10^3 + 5^3 = (10 + 5)(10^2 - 10 \cdot 5 + 5^2)\]
Now, we perform the arithmetic inside the parentheses:
\[(10 + 5) = 15\]
\[(10^2 - 10 \cdot 5 + 5^2) = (100 - 50 + 25) = 75\]
Multiplying these results:
\[15 \times 75 = 1125\]
Thus, \(10^3 + 5^3 = 1125\).
Polynomial identities like the sum and difference of cubes are incredibly useful in engineering and physics, where complex expressions often arise in stress analysis or thermal expansion calculations. By factoring or simplifying these expressions using identities, engineers can reduce computational errors and better understand the underlying physical behavior of structures, such as how parts of a machine expand when exposed to high heat. Mastering these identities provides a foundation for more advanced algebraic manipulation in various technical fields.