Is $\sqrt[3]{2 + \sqrt{5}} + \sqrt[3]{2 - \sqrt{5}}$ a rational number?

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    2015
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SUMMARY

The expression $\sqrt[3]{2 + \sqrt{5}} + \sqrt[3]{2 - \sqrt{5}}$ is proven to be a rational number. The discussion revolves around the use of principal cube roots to establish this conclusion. Participants were encouraged to follow the guidelines provided on the Math Help Boards for problem-solving. Despite the complexity of the problem, no participants successfully solved it, highlighting the challenge it presents.

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Euge
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Here's this week's problem!

________

Problem. Prove that $\sqrt[3]{2 + \sqrt{5}} + \sqrt[3]{2 - \sqrt{5}}$ is rational.
________Note. The cube roots involved are principal cube roots.
Remember to read the http://www.mathhelpboards.com/showthread.php?772-Problem-of-the-Week-%28POTW%29-Procedure-and-Guidelines to find out how to http://www.mathhelpboards.com/forms.php?do=form&fid=2!
 
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No one answered this week's problem correctly. You can find my solution below.

The sum is not only rational, but in fact, it equals $1$. Let $A = \sqrt[3]{2 + \sqrt{5}}$ and $B = \sqrt[3]{2 - \sqrt{5}}$. If $t = A + B$, then

$$t^3 = A^3 + B^3 + 3AB(A + B) = (2 + \sqrt{5}) + (2 - \sqrt{5}) + 3\sqrt[3]{-1}t = 4 - 3t.$$

Thus, $t$ is a real root of the cubic polynomial $x^3 + 3x - 4$. This polynomial factors as $(x - 1)(x^2 + x + 4)$ and $x^2 + x + 4$ has no real root, so $x^3 + 3x - 4$ has unique real root $1$. Therefore, $t = 1$.
 

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