

How to Use Algebraic Formulas to Solve Class 9 Maths Problems
The concept of algebraic formulas for class 9 plays a key role in mathematics and is widely applicable to both real-life situations and exam scenarios.
What Is Algebraic Formulas for Class 9?
An algebraic formula is a mathematical equation that shows relationships between variables and constants. In Class 9, these formulas include key algebraic identities like (a+b)2, (a-b)2, (a+b)(a-b), their expansions, and their use in simplifying expressions and solving equations. You’ll find these concepts applied in basic equations, mental maths tricks, and the factorization of expressions.
List of Key Algebraic Formulas for Class 9
Here are the standard algebraic identities every 9th grader should know. These are used to expand, factorize, and simplify algebraic expressions and solve various problems in exams.
Identity | Formula |
---|---|
Square of a sum | (a + b)2 = a2 + 2ab + b2 |
Square of a difference | (a - b)2 = a2 - 2ab + b2 |
Product of sum & difference | (a + b)(a - b) = a2 - b2 |
Expansion of cube of sum | (a + b)3 = a3 + 3a2b + 3ab2 + b3 |
Expansion of cube of difference | (a - b)3 = a3 - 3a2b + 3ab2 - b3 |
Product of binomials | (x + a)(x + b) = x2 + (a + b)x + ab |
Square of sum of three terms | (a + b + c)2 = a2 + b2 + c2 + 2ab + 2bc + 2ca |
Why Should You Learn Algebraic Formulas in Class 9?
Algebraic formulas for class 9 are essential for quick calculations, reducing mistakes, and building confidence in higher-level maths. They’re especially useful for polynomial factorization, mental maths tricks, and exam time management. With regular practice and smart revision, you’ll start seeing them as tools that simplify big problems into small steps.
Step-by-Step Illustration: How to Use an Algebraic Formula
Let’s solve square of 101 using algebraic identities:
1. Express 101 as (100 + 1)2. Use (a + b)2 = a2 + 2ab + b2
3. a = 100, b = 1
4. (100 + 1)2 = 1002 + 2 × 100 × 1 + 12 = 10000 + 200 + 1 = 10201
Speed Trick or Vedic Shortcut
To quickly solve (99)2 or (101)2 without a calculator, use the identity. For multiplication like 98 × 102:
1. Both are near 100, so write as (100 - 2) × (100 + 2)2. Use (a - b)(a + b) = a2 - b2
3. (100 - 2)(100 + 2) = 1002 - 22 = 10000 - 4 = 9996
Tricks like these are taught in Vedantu’s live maths sessions to build your calculation speed for NTSE, Olympiads, and other exams.
Practice Yourself: Try These Problems
- Find (103)2 using (a + b)2 identity.
- Use (a + b)(a - b) to calculate 47 × 53.
- Write the expansion of (x + 5)2 and solve for x = 4.
- Factorize (x + 6)(x + 2) using the relevant formula.
Frequent Errors and Misunderstandings
- Mixing up plus and minus signs in expansions (e.g., writing (a-b)2 with +2ab instead of -2ab).
- Forgetting that (a+b)2 is NOT a2 + b2 (don’t miss the “2ab” part!).
- Confusing which formula to use: (a+b)2 vs. (a+b)(a-b).
- Copying digits wrong during multiplication/calculation.
Classroom Tip
A smart way to remember algebraic formulas for class 9: Make a formula chart on a sticky note, keep it in your maths notebook, or set it as your mobile wallpaper before exams. Vedantu teachers recommend quick visual revision and regular practice with example problems.
Relation to Other Concepts
Algebraic formulas for class 9 are closely linked to algebraic expressions, algebraic identities, and algebraic equations. Mastering identities makes solving equations, factorization, and understanding polynomials much easier in both class 9 and higher classes. You’ll also apply these formulas in geometry, number systems, and later topics like quadratic equations.
Downloadable Formula Sheet & Revision Links
Practice more with algebraic identities worksheets and polynomial factorization examples available on Vedantu.
Wrapping It All Up
We explored algebraic formulas for class 9—from their definitions, expansion, tricky calculations, common errors, and how these connect with other maths topics. With daily practice and support from expert teachers at Vedantu, you can strengthen your formula knowledge and score higher in your school and board exams!
Related Links
- Practice Worksheet: Algebraic Expressions
- Factorization Tricks Using Identities
- Algebra for Class 6 (For a Refresher)
FAQs on Algebraic Formulas for Class 9 – Complete List with Examples
1. What are the algebraic formulas for Class 9?
Class 9 algebraic formulas are mathematical equations showing relationships between variables and constants. Mastering these is crucial for solving problems quickly and accurately. Key formulas include:
- (a + b)² = a² + 2ab + b² (Square of a sum)
- (a - b)² = a² - 2ab + b² (Square of a difference)
- (a + b)(a - b) = a² - b² (Difference of squares)
- (a + b)³ = a³ + 3a²b + 3ab² + b³ (Cube of a sum)
- (a - b)³ = a³ - 3a²b + 3ab² - b³ (Cube of a difference)
- a³ + b³ = (a + b)(a² - ab + b²) (Sum of cubes)
- a³ - b³ = (a - b)(a² + ab + b²) (Difference of cubes)
These identities simplify complex calculations and are essential for various problem-solving techniques.
2. How many algebraic identities do I need to memorize for exams?
The number of algebraic identities you need to memorize depends on your syllabus and exam requirements. However, focusing on the seven core identities listed above will cover most exam questions. Understanding the underlying principles is more important than rote memorization.
3. What is the difference between a formula and an identity?
A formula expresses a relationship between variables, often used for calculations. An identity is an equation that is true for all values of the variables involved. All identities are formulas, but not all formulas are identities.
4. Where can I get an Algebraic Formulas PDF for Class 9?
You can find downloadable PDFs of Class 9 algebraic formulas on various educational websites, including Vedantu. Search for "Algebraic formulas for Class 9 PDF" to find several options.
5. How do I apply these formulas to solve word problems?
To apply algebraic formulas to word problems:
- Identify the unknowns and assign them variables (e.g., x, y).
- Translate the problem's statements into mathematical equations using the formulas.
- Solve the equations for the unknowns using appropriate algebraic techniques.
- Check your solution by substituting the values back into the original problem statement.
Practice with various word problems to improve your ability to translate word problems into mathematical equations.
6. How can I prove (a+b)³ = a³ + 3a²b + 3ab² + b³?
You can prove this identity using the distributive property and the square of a sum identity:
- (a + b)³ = (a + b)(a + b)² = (a + b)(a² + 2ab + b²)
- Expanding this expression, we get: a³ + 2a²b + ab² + a²b + 2ab² + b³
- Combining like terms, we obtain the result: a³ + 3a²b + 3ab² + b³
7. Why do some algebraic identities have negative signs?
Negative signs in algebraic identities arise from the subtraction operation. For instance, in the identity (a - b)² = a² - 2ab + b², the -2ab term comes from the expansion (a - b)(a - b), where the product of a and -b, and -b and a, result in negative terms.
8. What real-life problems can be solved using algebraic identities?
Algebraic identities are useful in many real-world applications, such as calculating areas and volumes of geometric shapes, solving physics problems involving motion or forces, and simplifying financial calculations.
9. How can I avoid mistakes when substituting values in formulas?
To avoid mistakes when substituting values:
- Carefully substitute values, paying close attention to signs (positive or negative).
- Use parentheses to group terms correctly, especially when dealing with negative numbers or fractions.
- Double-check your work before moving to the next step to identify any errors early on.
10. Does every equation in algebra have a formula or identity?
No, not every equation in algebra has a corresponding formula or identity. Many equations require different solution methods, such as factoring, the quadratic formula, or graphical methods.
11. What are some common mistakes students make when working with algebraic formulas?
Common mistakes include incorrect application of the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS), errors in sign manipulation (especially with negative numbers), and forgetting to distribute terms correctly when expanding expressions.
12. How can I improve my speed and accuracy in solving problems involving algebraic formulas?
To increase speed and accuracy:
- Practice regularly with a variety of problems, starting with simpler ones and progressing to more complex ones.
- Memorize the common identities to reduce calculation time.
- Understand the underlying concepts behind the formulas rather than just memorizing them.
- Review your work carefully to catch any errors before submitting your answers.

















