Is there a theorem for expanding (a^n)-1?

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  • Thread starter Thread starter crazyformath2
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SUMMARY

The expansion of the expression (a^n) - 1 can be definitively expressed using the formula (a - 1)(a^(n-1) + a^(n-2) + … + 1). This formula illustrates that (a^n) - 1 factors into a linear term and a polynomial of degree n-1. The discussion confirms that this is a standard result in algebra, applicable for any integer n.

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crazyformath2
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Can someone help me.
How would I expand (a^n)-1 and is there a theorem for this?

an-1
 
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Hi crazyformath2! :smile:

an - 1 = (a - 1)(an-1 + an-2 + … + 1) :wink:
 

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