Factorise the following: 5a^3b^5-4ab^2

Step 1:-Find any common factors. Looking at this example, it becomes clear that a HCF won't be a numerical value (e.g. 4 or 5) as there are no factors which are common for both 4 and 5. Looking further, can we use the a's and b's as factors? In this case, yes we can. The highest common factor in this case therefore is ab^2.
Step 2:-Using this found highest common factor, and removing (dividing) both equations by this, what are we left with?in this case, 5a^3b^5 will go to, ab^2(5a^2b^3), and the -4ab^2 will go to, ab^2(-4)
Step 3:-Putting this all together, we are left with the answer of:
ab^2(5a^2b^3-4)

Answered by Maths tutor

2900 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Calculate the integral of e^x*sin x


Prove that 1+2+...+n = n(n+1)/2 for all integers n>0. (Hint: Use induction.)


What is the chain rule and how does it work?


A curve has equation y = 20x -x^(2) - 2x^(3). The curve has a stationary point at the point M where x = −2. Find the x coordinates of the other stationary point.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning