# I An algebraic equation

#### Wuberdall

Hi,

I'm currently studying percolation theory and here I'm stuck on the this "simple" algebraic equation
$$ax^{n-1} - x +1 - a = 0$$
clearly, the trivial solution x = 1 solves it. But I'm told that
$$x = 1 - \frac{2a(n-1)-2}{a(n-2)(n-1)}$$
is another solution. This makes we wonder, if the equation can be put into a simpler form (e.g. quadratic or cubic) — even though I haven't succeed to.

Can any of you help ??

Last edited by a moderator:

#### FactChecker

Gold Member
2018 Award
I don't think that the statement is true. With a=4, n=4, I get x=1/12 and f(1/12) = -1331/432

#### Stephen Tashi

clearly, the trivial solution x = 1 solves it.
Then you can obtain an equation in a lower power of x by dividing the original equation by (x-1). Try that for a particular case like n = 3.

mfb

"An algebraic equation"

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