How would I work this out algebracally

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving two equations derived from a calculus problem: 6z-2yz-z^2=0 and 6y-y^2-2yz=0. Participants are exploring formal algebraic methods to find solutions to these equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss factoring the equations and applying the zero product property. There are attempts to derive solutions algebraically, with some questioning the validity of their approaches and expressing frustration over the lack of formal methods in their textbook.

Discussion Status

Some guidance has been offered regarding factoring and the zero product property, but there is no explicit consensus on the best approach. Participants are exploring different interpretations and methods, with one expressing confusion over the algebraic steps involved.

Contextual Notes

One participant mentions a previous similar problem involving quadratic curves, indicating a broader context of challenges faced in calculus. There is also a note of frustration regarding the reliance on external tools like Wolfram Alpha for solutions.

noelo2014
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These 2 equations are part of a calculus problem:
6z-2yz-z^2=0
6y-y^2-2yz=0

I have already done the problem, and I can see from some inspection that the solutions to these equations are z=0,y=0 z=6,y=0 z=0,y=6 and z=y=2

My question is how can this be worked out in a formal algebraic way? Thanks for any help
 
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Such problems can be difficult in general. This one can be factored.

6z-2yz-z^2=0
6y-y^2-2yz=0

z(6-2y-z)=0
y(6-y-2z)=0

We see there are four solutions and they are easy to work out. By zero product property

z=0
y=0

z=0
(6-y-2z)=0

(6-2y-z)=0
y=0

(6-2y-z)=0
(6-y-2z)=0
 
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Thanks,
(6-y-2z)=0
-2z=-6+y
2z=6-y
z=2.1 , y=1.8

but that won't satisfy 6-2y-z=0...

So it's a case of guesswork? These sort of equations come up a lot in the calculus I'm doing at the moment, in my textbook they never show how they solve these equations , they just say "y is 2", or whatever, without giving the algebra behind it.

While I'm on this subject I had a similar problem recently that involved 2 quadratic curves, one in terms of x and the other in terms of y,

Quick example: y=3x^2-20,x=y^2+x-10

If anyone knows some clues or tricks for solving these I'd love to hear them, the only way I can solve them atm with my limited time and knowledge is Wolfram Alpha

Cheers
 
^I don't follow your work.
There is no guessing.
You need to solve two equations at a times as in my above post.
Maybe drawing the graph will help.
 
Sorry the equations I gave were wrong, I'll post them another time :)
 

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