Question

how do I factor a^2+ab+b^2?

Answer 1

is it (a+b)(a+b)?

Answer 2

It will not factor over the set of real numbers.

(a+b)(a+b) --> No.

Answer 3

oh okay... thanks

Answer 4

(a+b)(a+b) = a^2 + 2ab + b^2

Answer 5

how about a^3-b^3?

Answer 6

Yes. That is known as the difference of 2 cubes. It factors.

Answer 7

what I mean is that how do i factor than one?

Answer 8

( a - b ) ( a² + ab + b² )

Answer 9

don't you think that I should be (a-b)(a^2-b^2)?

Answer 10

Multiply it out and that will tell you that it is not.

Now, I do agree with you that the expression looks as if it should factor as you indicated. It just doesn't.

Answer 11

Factoring Patterns:

a^3 + b^3 = (a + b) (a^2 – ab + b^2)

a^3 – b^3 = (a – b ) (a^2 + ab + b^2)

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a^3 ± b^3 = (a [same sign] b)(a^2 + [opposite sign] ab + [always positive] b^2)
I remember the formula in words as above.

When you have time, read about factoring at the following link:

http://www.purplemath.com/modules/specfact2.htm

Answer 12

thanks..I understand it now.