How do I find the values of A, B, and C in a polynomial with the given factors?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the values of A, B, and C in the polynomial equation 3x^2 + 4x + C ≡ A(x + 1)^2 + B(x + 1) + 7. Participants explore various methods for solving this problem, including rewriting expressions, expanding polynomials, and equating coefficients.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests rewriting x^2 as ((x+1)-1)^2 and performing necessary operations to derive A, B, and C.
  • Another participant questions the relevance of the rewriting and seeks clarification on how it relates to the original polynomial.
  • A different approach is proposed to expand the right-hand side of the equation and equate coefficients to solve for A, B, and C.
  • Participants express confusion regarding the substitution of values for x and the equivalence of expressions.
  • One participant humorously notes the complexity of the problem and suggests a more straightforward method of equating coefficients directly from the expanded form.
  • There are expressions of frustration and resignation among participants regarding the clarity of explanations and the problem-solving process.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best method to solve for A, B, and C. Multiple approaches are discussed, and confusion remains about certain steps and substitutions.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the equivalence of certain expressions and the implications of their substitutions. There are unresolved questions about the clarity of the problem-solving steps presented.

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[tex]3x^2 + 4x + C \equiv A(x + 1)^2 + B(x + 1) + 7[/tex]
Find all values of A, B and C.
Could someone teach how to do this?
 
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Rewrite
[tex]x^{2}=((x+1)-1)^{2}[/tex]
and do the necessary operations.
 
Huh? Sorry I don't understand what u mean.
 
[tex]((x+1)-1)^{2}=(x+1)^{2}-2(x+1)+1[/tex]
 
How is [tex]((x+1)-1)^{2}=(x+1)^{2}-2(x+1)+1[/tex]
related to [tex]3x^2 + 4x + C \equiv A(x + 1)^2 + B(x + 1) + 7 ?[/tex]
Sorry but i don't get u.
 
It's equal to [tex]x^{2}[/tex]!
Make a similar rewriting of x:
[tex]x=((x+1)-1)[/tex]
Now, substitute these expressions for [tex]x,x^{2}[/tex] into your LEFT-HAND SIDE.
Reorganize the terms you get, and derive conditions so that your new expression equals your ORIGINAL RIGHT-HAND SIDE.
This will determine A,B,C.
 
Alternatively, you could expand the right hand side, and equate coefficients to solve for A, B, and C.
Or you could plug in a few values for x to generate equations.
 
I probably wasn't clear. Firstly, how does [tex]x^{2}=((x+1)-1)^{2}.[/tex] Secondly, which ones do i substitute in for x? Is it [tex]((x+1)-1)^{2} = 3 or (x + 1)^2 ?[/tex]
 
You know that 1-1=0, right?
So (x+1)-1=x+1-1=x.
To be nice, I'll do this for once:
We have:
[tex]3x^{2}=3((x+1)-1)^{2}=3(x+1)^{2}-6(x+1)+3[/tex]
[tex]4x=4((x+1)-1)=4(x+1)-4[/tex]
[tex]C=C=C[/tex]
Now, add these equations together, downwards. The outermost terms then turn into:
[tex]3x^{2}+4x+C=3(x+1)^{2}-2(x+1)+(C-1)[/tex]
Do you understand this?
 
  • #10
What does (x + 1) - 1 equal? Then what does ((x+1) - 1)^2 equal?
 
  • #11
I'm just curious, has this got something to do with modulus?
 
  • #12
Sariaht said:
I'm just curious, has this got something to do with modulus?
Not that I know of..
It is simply to substitute "equal for equal"
 
  • #13
<Sarcastic mode ON>
arildno you have to be a little more diplomatic, I think
<Sarcastic mode OFF>
 
  • #14
you guys are making the problem too complicated
since
[tex]3x^2 + 4x + C = A(x + 1)^2 + B(x + 1) + 7[/tex]
expand [tex]A(x + 1)^2 + B(x + 1) + 7[/tex]
then you have [tex]Ax^2 + 2Ax + A + Bx + B + 7[/tex]
and [tex]3x^2 + 4x + C = Ax^2 + 2Ax + A + Bx + B + 7[/tex]
equate the coeffients of the powers you have
[tex]3 = A[/tex] for [tex]x^2[/tex]
[tex]2A + B = 4[/tex] for [tex]x^1[/tex]
[tex]A + B + 7 = C[/tex] for [tex]x^0[/tex]
solve the system and you got the answer :smile:
 
Last edited:
  • #15
Ahh... Sorry but i was a bit slow on "(x+1)-1" part (sorry if i pissed u arildno :frown: ). Thanks for the help guys!
 
  • #16
I wasn't exactly pissed off; rather, I felt resignation sneak up on me..:wink:
 

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