Test for inconsistency of system of nonlinear equations

In summary, there is no quick test to determine if a system of nonlinear equations is inconsistent. However, analyzing the equations and finding impossible solutions, such as x^2 = -1, can indicate that there is no solution. The equations may also define an algebraic variety, which requires further mathematical analysis to determine the shape of the zeros.
  • #1
e2m2a
354
11
Is there a quick test to determine if a system of nonlinear equations is inconsistent. For example, suppose there is a system of equations such as:

3x cubed + 2y cubed = z cubed
2x cubed + 5y cubed = z cubed

Since these two equations are clearly not dependent, could we say that since they both are equal to the same term (z cubed), that they are therefore, inconsistent?
 
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  • #2
x=y=z=0 is a solution, for example.

Both left hand sides are equal to the same thing, which means ##3x^2+2y^3=2x^3+5y^3##, that is an equation with solutions. An infinite set of solutions, actually. And for every solution of that equation there is a z that fits.

If you can derive something impossible, (like ##x^2=-1## if you work with real numbers), then there is no solution, but it is not always directly obvious if you can do that.
 
  • #3
e2m2a said:
Is there a quick test to determine if a system of nonlinear equations is inconsistent. For example, suppose there is a system of equations such as:

3x cubed + 2y cubed = z cubed
2x cubed + 5y cubed = z cubed

Since these two equations are clearly not dependent, could we say that since they both are equal to the same term (z cubed), that they are therefore, inconsistent?
They are not "inconsistent" which presumable means "without solution". Those kind of questions define an algebraic variety and are subject to commutative algebra and algebraic geometry. As far as I know, there is no test in "P" that decides the shape of the zeros, but this is more of a guess.
 

Related to Test for inconsistency of system of nonlinear equations

1. What is a system of nonlinear equations?

A system of nonlinear equations is a set of equations where the variables have powers other than 1 and the equations cannot be simplified to a linear form.

2. How do I know if a system of nonlinear equations is inconsistent?

A system of nonlinear equations is inconsistent if there is no solution that satisfies all of the equations at the same time. In other words, the equations are not compatible with each other.

3. What is the test for inconsistency of a system of nonlinear equations?

The test for inconsistency of a system of nonlinear equations is to graph the equations and see if they intersect at any point. If they do not intersect, then the system is inconsistent.

4. Can a system of nonlinear equations have more than one solution?

Yes, a system of nonlinear equations can have more than one solution. This occurs when the equations intersect at multiple points on the graph.

5. Is there a way to solve a system of nonlinear equations without graphing?

Yes, there are various numerical methods that can be used to solve a system of nonlinear equations without graphing, such as substitution, elimination, and Newton's method. However, these methods may not always give an exact solution and may require some trial and error.

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