Binomial Theorem - Determine n

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on determining the value of n in the binomial expansion of (x - 1/5)n, specifically the sixth term represented as -1287/(3125)x8. The relevant formula used is tk+1 = nCk an-k bk. The correct value of n is concluded to be 13 after analyzing the powers of x and confirming that n - 5 = 8 leads to n = 13.

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  • Basic algebraic manipulation of equations
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Schaus
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Homework Statement


The sixth term of the expansion of (x-1/5)n is -1287/(3125)x8. Determine n.

Homework Equations


tk+1=nCkan-kbk

The Attempt at a Solution


tk+1=nCkan-kbk
t5+1=nC5(x)n-5(-1/5)5
This is where I'm stuck. Do I sub in -1287/(3125)x8 to = t6? If so what do I do from here?
-1287/(3125)x8 = nC5(x)n-5(-1/5)5?
Any help is greatly appreciated!
 
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You already wrote ##(-\frac{1}{5})^5=-\frac{1}{3125}## and ##x^{n-5}=x^8##, what is ##n## then? ##\binom{n}{5}## should only serve as a control calculation.
 
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So all I need is the x8 and xn-5?
Then bases are the same so - n-5 = 8 ----> n=3?
 
Schaus said:
So all I need is the x8 and xn-5?
Then bases are the same so - n-5 = 8 ----> n=3?
##3-5=8## ?
 
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Whoops! Sorry I meant to put n = 13!
 

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