Visualising polynomials: cube of a binomial
- Author:
- lorena gazzola, Gara Szabolcs, sonom, Jennifer Silverman
- Topic:
- Algebra, Geometry, Solids or 3D Shapes, Volume
In this activity you will prove the formula for the cube of a binomial by using both algebra and geometry.
Make a set of solids (8 in total) using some clay or cardboard.
- Make a cube of side a.
- Make a cube of side b.
- Make 3 rectangular prisms of side (a x a x b).
- Make 3 rectangular prisms of side (a x b x b).
- Use all of these 3-D shapes to make a cube.
- You can help yourself using the applet below.