The expression $a^3 + 125$ can be factored using the sum of cubes formula. The sum of cubes formula is:

$x^3 + y^3 = (x + y)(x^2 - xy + y^2)$

In your case:

• $x = a$
• $y = 5$ because $125 = 5^3$

Applying the formula:

$a^3 + 125 = a^3 + 5^3 = (a + 5)(a^2 - 5a + 25)$

So, the factored form of $a^3 + 125$ is:

$(a + 5)(a^2 - 5a + 25)$

Would you like more details or have any questions about this?

Here are 5 related questions:

1. How do you factor a difference of cubes?
2. What is the general formula for the sum of cubes?
3. How can you verify the factorization of a cubic expression?
4. What are some real-world applications of the sum of cubes?
5. How would you factor $a^3 - 125$?

Tip: Always check your factorization by expanding it back to the original expression to ensure it's correct.