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

3191 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

The curve C has equation 2x^2y+2x+4y-cos(pi*y)=17 A) Use implict differenciation to find dy/dx B) point P(3,0.5) lies on C, find the x coodinate of the point A at which the normal to C at P meets the x axis.


Can you show me why the integral of 1/x is the natural log of x?


Solving harder exponential equations, e.g. 5/[exp(x) + 6exp(-x)] - 1 = 0 . CORE MATHS.


Why does differentiation work like it does.


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