MHB Finding $m+n+k$ Given $f(x)=x^4-29x^3+mx^2+nx+k$

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The discussion revolves around finding the values of m, n, and k in the polynomial function f(x)=x^4-29x^3+mx^2+nx+k, given specific function outputs at x=5, 11, and 17. Participants share their approaches to solving the problem, with some initially overcomplicating the process. The correct method leads to the determination of m, n, and k, ultimately allowing the calculation of their sum, m+n+k. The problem emphasizes the importance of simplifying complex polynomial equations. The final result of m+n+k is derived through collaborative problem-solving.
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Given that $f(x)=x^4-29x^3+mx^2+nx+k$, and $f(5)=11$, $f(11)=17$ and $f(17)=23$, find the sum of $m+n+k$.
 
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anemone said:
Given that $f(x)=x^4-29x^3+mx^2+nx+k$, and $f(5)=11$, $f(11)=17$ and $f(17)=23$, find the sum of $m+n+k$.

$f(5)=11 \Rightarrow 625-3625+25m+5n+k=11 \Rightarrow 25m+5n+k=3011$

$f(11)=17 \Rightarrow -23958+121m+11n+k=17 \Rightarrow 121m+11n+k=23975$

$f(17)=23 \Rightarrow -58956+289m+17n+k=23 \Rightarrow 289m+17n+k=58979$

From the relations $25m+5n+k=3011, 121m+11n+k=23975 \text{ and }289m+17n+k=58979$,we get that:

$k=-3734,m=195,n=374$

Therefore, the sum $m+n+k$ is equal to $-3165$ .
 
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we have f(x) = x+ 6 for x= 5 11 and 17

so f(x)= (x-5)(x-11)(X-17)Q(x) +x + 6
ax f(x) is a 4th oder polynomal so Q(x) = linear say x+ a
coefficient of $x^3 = - 29 = -5 - 11 - 17 + a$ so a = 4

so f(x) = (x-5)(x-11)(x-17)(x+4) + x + 6
put x = 1 to get
1- 29 + m + n + k = (-4) *(-10) *(-16) * 5 + 1 + 6 = - 3200 +7 = - 3193

or m + n + k = -3193 + 28 = - 3165
 
Well done, evinda and thanks for participating! :)

To be completely honest with you, I initially looked at this problem in a much more complicated way and hence I thought this problem is a hard one for certain.:o

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kaliprasad said:
we have f(x) = x+ 6 for x= 5 11 and 17

so f(x)= (x-5)(x-11)(X-17)Q(x) +x + 6
ax f(x) is a 4th oder polynomal so Q(x) = linear say x+ a
coefficient of $x^3 = - 29 = -5 - 11 - 17 + a$ so a = 4

so f(x) = (x-5)(x-11)(x-17)(x+4) + x + 6
put x = 1 to get
1- 29 + m + n + k = (-4) *(-10) *(-16) * 5 + 1 + 6 = - 3200 +7 = - 3193

or m + n + k = -3193 + 28 = - 3165

Yes, that method works as well and thanks for participating, kali!
 
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