MHB How do I simplify this fraction with radicals?

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To simplify the fraction $\large \dfrac{2}{\sqrt{4-3\sqrt[4]{5}+2\sqrt{5}-\sqrt[4]{125}}}$, the discussion focuses on verifying the equality and determining the correct value of $a$. Participants emphasize the importance of checking initial calculations for accuracy. The conversation highlights the complexity of the expression involving radicals and the need for careful manipulation. Ultimately, the goal is to arrive at a simplified form of the fraction. The thread showcases problem-solving strategies for handling radical expressions effectively.
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Simplify $\large \dfrac{2}{\sqrt{4-3\sqrt[4]{5}+2\sqrt{5}-\sqrt[4]{125}}}$.
 
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My solution:

Let $$x=\sqrt[4]{5}$$

I would try to see if there is a solution for $a$ in:

$$\left(1+ax \right)^2\left(4-3x+2x^2-x^3 \right)=4$$

$$-a^2x^5+(2a^2-2a)x^4+(-3a^2+4a-1)x^3+(4a^2-6a+2)x^2+(8a-3)x+4=4$$

Now, we have:

$$x^5=5x$$ and $$x^4=5$$ hence we may write (after factoring):

$$(a-1)(1-3a)x^3+2(a-1)(2a-1)x^2+(a-1)(3-5a)x+10a(a-1)=0$$

Thus, we find $a=1$. And so we may write:

$$\frac{2}{\sqrt{4-3\sqrt[4]{5}+2\sqrt{5}-\sqrt[4]{125}}}=1+\sqrt[4]{5}$$
 
MarkFL said:
My solution:

Let $$x=\sqrt[4]{5}$$

I would try to see if there is a solution for $a$ in:

$$\left(1+ax \right)^2\left(4-3x+2x^2-x^3 \right)=4$$

$$-a^2x^5+(2a^2-2a)x^4+(-3a^2+4a-1)x^3+(4a^2-6a+2)x^2+(8a-3)x+4=4$$

Now, we have:

$$x^5=5x$$ and $$x^4=5$$ hence we may write (after factoring):

$$(a-1)(1-3a)x^3+2(a-1)(2a-1)x^2+(a-1)(3-5a)x+10a(a-1)=0$$

Thus, we find $a=1$. And so we may write:

$$\frac{2}{\sqrt{4-3\sqrt[4]{5}+2\sqrt{5}-\sqrt[4]{125}}}=1+\sqrt[4]{5}$$

Thanks for participating, MarkFL! You're very smart in checking if your first trial over the equality holds and if it does, what value of $a$ does it takes. Well done!
 
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