Find Independent of x in (6x^2-3/x)^6 Using Pascal's Triangle

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the term independent of x in the expression (6x^2 - 3/x)^6, focusing on the use of Pascal's Triangle and binomial expansion. Participants explore the concept of identifying the constant term in the polynomial expansion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks how to find the term independent of x in the given expression, indicating they have calculated n = 6 and r = 4.
  • Another participant expresses confusion about the term "independent of x," suggesting it may refer to the constant term in the polynomial expansion.
  • A participant clarifies that they believe the goal is to find the coefficient of x in the expansion and confirms that n = 6 is correct, while also emphasizing the importance of showing work for verification.
  • One participant provides a detailed breakdown of their calculations, demonstrating how they arrived at r = 4 by setting the exponent of x to zero.
  • A later reply acknowledges understanding the term "independent of x" and confirms the calculations presented, asking for the independent coefficient once r = 4 is established.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the interpretation of "independent of x" as referring to the constant term, but there is some initial confusion regarding terminology. The calculations leading to r = 4 are accepted, but the discussion does not reach a consensus on the final coefficient or term.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the importance of showing work to identify potential errors, indicating that the discussion relies on the accuracy of the mathematical steps taken. There is also a mention of terminology that may not be universally understood among participants.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in binomial expansion, polynomial expressions, and the identification of constant terms in algebraic expressions may find this discussion relevant.

Mathysics
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how do i find the independent of x in (6x^(2)-3/x)^6

I know that the formula nCr a^(n-r) b^r

i have got an answer of n = 6 and r = 4 i just want to make sure that I am correct and i would like someone to give me a hand~ :)
 
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I don't think people (including myself) understand what you mean by finding "the independent of x".
 
Do you mean possibly the "constant term" (which is "independent of x") when you expand the polynomial? If so, then yes, r= 4 is correct. However, in future, it would be good to show how you got your answer so (just in case you are wrong!) we could indicate where you went wrong.
 
I believe the sought expression is "coefficient". As in: Find the coefficient of x in the expansion of the expression [itex](6x^2-\frac{3}{x})^6[/itex].

Obviously n = 6 here. In this case one would need to find what value of r results in [itex]a^r b^{(n-r)}[/itex] being a multiple of x (here [itex]a=6x^2,b=-\frac{3}{x}[/itex].

--Elucidus
 
loveequation said:
I don't think people (including myself) understand what you mean by finding "the independent of x".
independent of x simply means that x^0 and yes I am trying to find the co-efficient there

heres are my working out.
independent of x in (6x^(2)-3/x)^6

1. (6^(6-r) x^(12-2r) ((-3^(r))/x^(r))

2. x^(12-2r)/x^(r) = x^(0)

3. x^(12-3r)=x^(0)

4. 12-3r=0

5. r = 4
 
Mathysics said:
independent of x simply means that x^0 and yes I am trying to find the co-efficient there

heres are my working out.
independent of x in (6x^(2)-3/x)^6

1. (6^(6-r) x^(12-2r) ((-3^(r))/x^(r))

2. x^(12-2r)/x^(r) = x^(0)

3. x^(12-3r)=x^(0)

4. 12-3r=0

5. r = 4

Ah, I see. This is a term I was unfamiliar with, but I understand now. Your work seems correct so far. If r = 4, what would the independent coefficient (constant term) be?

--Elucidus
 
thx for the help :)

exams finally over
 

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