A cube has volume 729 cubic centimetres. Find the length of its space diagonal (in centimetres).

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 9√3 cm

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The space diagonal of a cube connects opposite vertices and equals a√3, where a is the edge length. If the volume is known, we compute a from V = a^3 and then form the space diagonal directly. This problem tests chaining two standard cube identities correctly.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Volume V = 729 cm^3.
  • Cube identities: V = a^3 and space diagonal d = a√3.


Concept / Approach:
Find a = ∛V. Then substitute a into d = a√3. Keep radicals exact; the number is crafted so the cube root is integral.



Step-by-Step Solution:
a = ∛729 = 9 cmd = a√3 = 9√3 cm



Verification / Alternative check:
Confirm volume from a = 9: 9^3 = 729 cm^3; thus the diagonal 9√3 cm is consistent.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
9√2 cm is the face diagonal for a = 9 (a√2), not the space diagonal; 18 cm is twice the edge, not applicable; 18√3 omits the division by 2 that would appear in some other contexts, not here.



Common Pitfalls:
Using face diagonal a√2 instead of space diagonal a√3; miscomputing the cube root of 729.



Final Answer:
9√3 cm

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