Factorizing a Cubic Equation: How Do I Solve (x-1)(2x-1)(3x-1) = 0?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the cubic equation represented by the product of three linear factors: (x-1)(2x-1)(3x-1) = 0. Participants explore the methods of factorization and the implications of multiplying the factors to find the roots of the equation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the initial multiplication of the factors and question the necessity of this step. Some suggest that the roots can be identified directly from the factors without expanding them. Others express uncertainty about the next steps after expanding the equation.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on identifying the roots directly from the factors, while others have raised questions about the approach taken by the original poster. There is a mix of interpretations regarding the best method to solve the equation, but productive suggestions have been made.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the original poster's familiarity with quadratic equations but express confusion regarding cubic equations. There is an emphasis on understanding the relationship between the factors and their corresponding roots.

Mo
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I know how to solve quadratics using both factorisation and the equation method ... but how can i solve :

[tex](x-1)(2x-1)(3x-1) = 0[/tex]

I multiplied it all out and i got ..

[tex]6x^3 - 2x^2 -3x -1=0[/tex]

I just do not know where to got from here .. a little nudge in the right direction would be appreciated!

regards,
Mo
 
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Mo said:
I know how to solve quadratics using both factorisation and the equation method ... but how can i solve :

[tex](x-1)(2x-1)(3x-1) = 0[/tex]

I multiplied it all out and i got ..

[tex]6x^3 - 2x^2 -3x -1=0[/tex]

I just do not know where to got from here .. a little nudge in the right direction would be appreciated!

regards,
Mo

A small hint: why do you multiply? After all, if a*b*c=0, then...
 
Mo said:
I know how to solve quadratics using both factorisation and the equation method ... but how can i solve :
[tex](x-1)(2x-1)(3x-1) = 0[/tex]
I multiplied it all out and i got ..
[tex]6x^3 - 2x^2 -3x -1=0[/tex]
I just do not know where to got from here .. a little nudge in the right direction would be appreciated!
regards,
Mo

Why the heck did u multiply it? It was already solved.U were being asked for the 3 possible values of "x" which cancel the expression from the LHS.I think/hope they were obvious...

Daniel.

PS.But if u'd rather apply Cardano's formulae for the 3rd order algebrac equation u got,be my guest... :-p
 
:blushing:

yes, i do understand.

if

(x-1) = 0 then x =1
(2x-1) =0 then 2x=1 so x = 1/2
(3x-1) = 0 then 3x=1 so x=1/3

is that right.Am i going about it right. thanks.
 
Yeah, that's right.
 

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