Challenge problem #1 Solve 2x^2y^2−2xy+x^2+y^2−2x−2y+3=0

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a challenge problem involving the equation \(2x^2y^2-2xy+x^2+y^2-2x-2y+3=0\). Participants are tasked with finding all real numbers \(x\) and \(y\) that satisfy this equation, exploring both the mathematical reasoning and potential solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, Opalg, reformulates the equation as \(2(xy-1)^2 + (x+y-1)^2\) and concludes that for the equation to equal zero, both \(xy=1\) and \(x+y=1\) must hold. However, they note that the resulting quadratic equation \(\lambda^2 - \lambda + 1 = 0\) has no real roots, suggesting that there are no real solutions to the original equation.
  • Other participants express appreciation for the problem and the solution provided, but do not introduce additional viewpoints or alternative methods.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree with the analysis provided by Opalg, which indicates that there are no real solutions to the equation. However, the discussion does not explore alternative methods or challenge this conclusion, leaving the matter somewhat unresolved in terms of further exploration.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not delve into the assumptions or limitations of the mathematical steps taken, nor does it address potential alternative interpretations of the problem.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in challenge problems related to algebraic equations and those looking for insights into problem-solving techniques in mathematics may find this discussion useful.

Olinguito
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Hi all.

I would like to post some challenge problems from time to time. I’ll start with a simple one. :)

Find all real numbers $x,y$ satisfying the following equation:
$$2x^2y^2-2xy+x^2+y^2-2x-2y+3=0.$$
 
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Olinguito said:
Hi all.

I would like to post some challenge problems from time to time. I’ll start with a simple one. :)

Find all real numbers $x,y$ satisfying the following equation:
$$2x^2y^2-2xy+x^2+y^2-2x-2y+3=0.$$
Hi Olinguito, and welcome to MHB! We look forward seeing your problems.
[sp]$2x^2y^2-2xy+x^2+y^2-2x-2y+3 = 2(xy-1)^2 + (x+y-1)^2$. If that is zero then $xy=1$ and $x+y=1$. So $x$ and $y$ are the roots of $\lambda^2 - \lambda + 1 = 0$. But that equation has no real roots, so the given equation has no real solutions.[/sp]
 
Thanks Opalg – and great work! :D

I should have a second problem ready soon. :cool:
 
Olinguito said:
Hi all.

I would like to post some challenge problems from time to time. I’ll start with a simple one. :)

Find all real numbers $x,y$ satisfying the following equation:
$$2x^2y^2-2xy+x^2+y^2-2x-2y+3=0.$$

Welcome Olinguito!
$$2x^2y^2-2xy+x^2+y^2-2x-2y+3 = (xy)^2 + (xy-1)^2+(x-1)^2+(y-1)^2=0$$
A sum of squares is 0 if and only if all individual squares are 0.
So $x=1,y=1$,and $xy=0$, which is a contradiction.
Therefore there are no solutions.
 
Thanks, I like Serena! Great work as well. :D
 

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