MHB Determine all solutions in positive integers a, b, and c to this equation.

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The discussion focuses on finding all positive integer solutions for the equation a/b + b/c + c/a = 5, with the condition that a < b < c. Identified solutions include (1, 2, 4), (2, 4, 8), and (3, 6, 12), suggesting that multiples of these solutions also work. A participant notes that no solutions exist with c < 1000 that are not multiples of the identified solutions. The conversation also touches on the need for clarity in responses and the importance of thoroughness in addressing the original question. Overall, the thread emphasizes the limited nature of solutions within the specified constraints.
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Determine all solutions for \dfrac{a}{b} + \dfrac{b}{c} + \dfrac{c}{a} \ = \ 5, where \ \ a, \ b, \ and \ \ c \ \ are \ \ positive \ \ integers, \ \ and \ \ a &lt;b &lt; c.
 
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1,2,4
2,4,8
3,6,12
...
n,2n,4n
 
Wilmer said:
1,2,4
2,4,8
3,6,12
...
n,2n,4n

It is quite obvious that any multiple of a solution will also be a solution, so in essence you have a single solution here. Are there any solutions that are not a multiple of 1,2,4?

CB
 
CaptainBlack said:
> It is quite obvious that any multiple of a solution will also be a solution,
> so in essence you have a single solution here.
Thank you, Sir.

> Are there any solutions that are not a multiple of 1,2,4?
None with c < 1000
...
 
Wilmer said:
...

There is something wrong with your quoting, you are attributing to me an answer rather than the question. Also if that was your answer to the question that I did ask you need to give some explanation, like exhaustive search up to some limit, ... Also partial answers should not be presented as if they are complete answers.

You might be a man of few words but there is a point at which brevity stops conveying meaning.

CB
 
I do not visit this site often.
I noticed in this case that there had been no answer to the OP's post in over a week;
(plus I notice now that the OP is banned.)
I simply put up a quick reply TO THE OP, not to you.

What are you complaining to me about exactly?
I answered "within" the quote; I did specify a search up to c < 1000;
are you saying that's not "exhaustive" enough?

Or are you complaining about the "..."?
If so, that was because of the "minimum of 3 characters" required by this site.

Anyway, you have the capabilities of banning me, so just do so if I've
sinned appropriately; fine with me.
 
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