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Algebra/Calculating cube roots

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Expert: - 12/28/2009


Question
Reading about a local (Norfolk, UK) 18th C mathematical genius, Richard Porson, I found that as a young man he could allegedly calculate cube roots in his head. I had a few basic tries myself, using an algebraic approach, but (a) my maths is more than 40 years out of use, and (b) I was never much good anyway. So I wondered how one would do it.

Answer
Check these sites.
http://www.slideshare.net/greymatters/extracting-cube-roots-mentally
http://www.psychicscience.org/cubert.aspx
http://www.instructables.com/id/Take-Cube-Roots-of-6-Digit-Numbers-Mentally/
http://www.goodmanlivingwell.com/CubeRoots.htm

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Volunteer

Abe Mantell

Expertise

Hello, I am a college professor of mathematics and regularly teach all levels from elementary mathematics through differential equations, and would be happy to assist anyone with such questions!

Experience

Over 15 years teaching at the college level.

Organizations
NCTM, NYSMATYC, AMATYC, MAA, NYSUT, AFT.

Education/Credentials
B.S. in Mathematics from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
M.S. (and A.B.D.) in Applied Mathematics from SUNY @ Stony Brook

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