Step 1: Identify the Expression as a Difference of Cubes
The given expression is:
\[
27u^3 - 125
\]
We recognize this as a difference of cubes, which can be factored using the formula:
\[
a^3 - b^3 = (a - b)(a^2 + ab + b^2)
\]
Step 2: Determine \(a\) and \(b\)
To apply the formula, we need to find \(a\) and \(b\) such that:
\[
a^3 = 27u^3 \quad \text{and} \quad b^3 = 125
\]
Thus, we have:
\[
a = \sqrt[3]{27u^3} = 3u \quad \text{and} \quad b = \sqrt[3]{125} = 5
\]
Step 3: Apply the Difference of Cubes Formula
Substitute \(a = 3u\) and \(b = 5\) into the difference of cubes formula:
\[
27u^3 - 125 = (3u - 5)((3u)^2 + (3u)(5) + 5^2)
\]