Binomial expansion question that I cannot fathom

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    Binomial Expansion
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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the coefficient of p4q7 in the expansion of (2p - q)(p + q)10. Participants are exploring the implications of the binomial expansion and the specific coefficients needed.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants attempt to find the coefficient of p4q6 in the expansion of (p + q)10 as a step towards the solution. Others express confusion regarding the requirement for p4q7 and the total power of 11 in the original expression.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants questioning the setup and the relationship between the coefficients being sought. Some guidance has been offered regarding how to approach the problem by breaking it down into separate terms, but no consensus has been reached on the correct method or interpretation.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the powers of p and q must add up to 11, which raises questions about the feasibility of obtaining the desired coefficient from the given expression.

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Homework Statement



It says: Determine the coefficient of p4q7 in the expansion of (2p-q)(p+q)10.

I can find the coefficient of p4q6 in the expansion of (p+q)10 but how am I to find it for (2p-q)(p+q)10?



Homework Equations



Binomial expansion formula.

The Attempt at a Solution



[Coefficient of p4q6 in the expansion of (p+q)10 = (10C6) x (p)4 x (q)6.]
 
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Originaltitle said:

Homework Statement



It says: Determine the coefficient of p4q7 in the expansion of (2p-q)(p+q)10.

I can find the coefficient of p4q6 in the expansion of (p+q)10 but how am I to find it for (2p-q)(p+q)10?



Homework Equations



Binomial expansion formula.

The Attempt at a Solution



[Coefficient of p4q6 in the expansion of (p+q)10 = (10C6) x (p)4 x (q)6.]

Write
(2p-q)(p+q)^{10} = 2 p (p+q)^{10} - q (p+q)^{10}, then find the coefficients of p^4 q^6 in each term separately.
 
But they're asking for the coefficient of p^4q^7, not p^4q^6. BUT 4 + 7 = 11 and 11 is not the power on the original bracket. The powers on p and q must add up to 11, but they can't over here.
 
Originaltitle said:
But they're asking for the coefficient of p^4q^7, not p^4q^6. BUT 4 + 7 = 11 and 11 is not the power on the original bracket. The powers on p and q must add up to 11, but they can't over here.

I have told you how I would do the problem if I had to.
 
You did but they're not asking for what you're doing. They're asking for the coeff. of p^4q^7, not p^4q^6 which is what you're finding.
 
Originaltitle said:
You did but they're not asking for what you're doing. They're asking for the coeff. of p^4q^7, not p^4q^6 which is what you're finding.

Use Ray Vickson's method. For the binomial ##(p+q)^{10}##, find the coefficient of ##p^3q^7## for the first product, and ##p^4q^6## for the second product.

What happens when you multiply the first product by ##2p##, and the second by ##q##? Now do the subtraction.
 
Thanks.
 

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