Master the Factorization Formula for x^200 and y^200 | Homework Equations

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the factorization of the expression x^200 - y^200, with participants exploring whether there is a named formula associated with this specific case. The subject area pertains to algebraic identities and polynomial factorization.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants attempt to identify a memorable name for the factorization formula and discuss the general form of the expression x^n - y^n. Some express uncertainty about the existence of a specific name for this identity.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing thoughts on the factorization and questioning the need for a named formula. There is a recognition of the simplicity of the identity, and some participants suggest that it may not require a specific label.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention the use of calculators for factoring, indicating a potential reliance on technology for solving such problems. There is also a note of personal experience with remembering identities, which may influence the discussion.

ehrenfest
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Homework Statement



Is there like a formula with a name easy to remember of which the following is a specific instance:

x^200 -y^200 = (x-y)(x^199+x^198y+... + y^198*x + y^199)

?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Not that I've ever heard...

[tex](x+y)(x-y)(x^2+y^2)(x^4+y^4)(x^4+x^3y+x^{2}y^2+xy^3+y^4)(x^4-x^3y+x^2y^2-xy^3+y^4)(x^8-x^6y^2+x^4y^4-x^2y^6+y^8)(x^{16}-x^{12}y^4+x^8y^8-x^4y^{12}+y^{16})[/tex]
[tex](x^{20}+x^{15}y^5+x^{10}y^{10}+x^5y^{15}+y^{20})(x^{20}-x^{15}y^5+x^{10}y^{10}-x^5y^{15}+y^{20})(x^{40}-x^{30}y^{10}+x^{20}y^{20}-x^{10}y^{30}+y^{40})[/tex]
[tex](x^{80}-x^{60}y^{20}+x^{40}y^{40}-x^{20}y^{60}+y^{80})[/tex]

Sorry wouldn't fint onto one line...

Maybe to can find a pattern to that mess though. If not, well, it took my calculator about 3 second to find the answer, might want to use one the next time you need to factor that...
 
Last edited:
which calculator do you have? i been thinking about upgrading to a TI-89 ...
 
rocophysics said:
which calculator do you have? i been thinking about upgrading to a TI-89 ...

Ti-89 Titanium
 
ehrenfest said:

Homework Statement



Is there like a formula with a name easy to remember of which the following is a specific instance:

x^200 -y^200 = (x-y)(x^199+x^198y+... + y^198*x + y^199)

?

Do you mean
[tex]x^n- y^n= (x-y)(x^{n-1}+ x^(n-2)y+ /cdot/cdot/cdot+ xy^{n-2}+ y^{n-1}[/tex]?
I've never worried about it having a name!
 
HallsofIvy said:
Do you mean
[tex]x^n- y^n= (x-y)(x^{n-1}+ x^(n-2)y+ /cdot/cdot/cdot+ xy^{n-2}+ y^{n-1}[/tex]?
I've never worried about it having a name!

Yes. I just forget identities so easily when I have to remember them by their statement not some label. However, you're right, this is a pretty simple one that is easily verifiable and probably doesn't warrant a name!
 

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