Can You Solve This Advanced Algebra Puzzle?

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SUMMARY

The advanced algebra puzzle presented involves solving the equation $x + 4\sqrt{xy} - 2\sqrt{x} - 4\sqrt{y} + 4y = 3$ for positive real numbers $x$ and $y$. The goal is to evaluate the expression $\dfrac{\sqrt{x} + 2\sqrt{y} + 2014}{4 - \sqrt{x} - 2\sqrt{y}}$. Members of the forum, including kaliprasad, castor28, MegaMoh, lfdahl, and Greg, successfully provided solutions, showcasing their problem-solving skills in algebra.

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anemone
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Here is this week's POTW:

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If $x$ and $y$ are positive real numbers that satisfy the equation $x+4\sqrt{xy}-2\sqrt{x}-4\sqrt{y}+4y=3$, evaluate $\dfrac{\sqrt{x}+2\sqrt{y}+2014}{4-\sqrt{x}-2\sqrt{y}}$.

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Congratulations to the following members for their correct solution!(Cool)

1. kaliprasad
2. castor28
3. MegaMoh
4. lfdahl
5. Greg

Solution from Greg:
Note that the L.H.S. of the given equation factors as $(\sqrt x+2\sqrt y)(\sqrt x+2\sqrt y-2)$.

Setting $u=\sqrt x+2\sqrt y$ we obtain the quadratic $u^2-2u-3=(u-3)(u+1)=0$ and this implies that $\sqrt x+2\sqrt y=3$.

Thus we may conclude that $\frac{\sqrt{x}+2\sqrt{y}+2014}{4-\sqrt{x}-2\sqrt{y}}=2017$
 

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