Maximize 2(a-x)(x+√(x^2+b^2)) for Real Numbers | Quadratic Equations Hint

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The discussion revolves around finding the maximum value of the expression 2(a-x)(x+√(x²+b²)) for real numbers x. Participants suggest using the method of completing the square to simplify the expression, with hints provided on how to approach the problem. The correct maximum value is identified as a²+b², and some users express their struggles with the mathematical concepts involved. Ultimately, one participant successfully solves the problem after receiving guidance, highlighting the collaborative nature of the discussion. The conversation underscores the importance of understanding quadratic equations in solving such problems.
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Homework Statement


If x belongs set of real numbers, find the maximum value of 2(a-x)(x+\sqrt{x^{2}+b^{2}})

The Attempt at a Solution


All that I could do was to try and diffrentiate the above expression but it yields a polynomial of degree 4. A hint to this question is that it belongs to the Quadratic Equations Chapter. And the answer to th above question is a^{2}+b^{2}
Please help me. I can't make head or tail out of it.
 
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complete the square …

ritwik06 said:
If x belongs set of real numbers, find the maximum value of 2(a-x)(x+\sqrt{x^{2}+b^{2}})

A hint to this question is that it belongs to the Quadratic Equations Chapter. And the answer to th above question is a^{2}+b^{2}

Hi ritwik06! :smile:

You have to complete the square (twice).

Hint: start with the easy bit … the 2ax. :smile:
 


tiny-tim said:
Hi ritwik06! :smile:

You have to complete the square (twice).

Hint: start with the easy bit … the 2ax. :smile:

I didnt get u tim. Coul u please be more explicit...
thanks
 


ritwik06 said:
I didnt get u tim. Coul u please be more explicit...
thanks

Do you know what "complete the square" means?

If you do … then try it! :smile:

(If you don't, I'll show you an example.)
 


tiny-tim said:
Do you know what "complete the square" means?

If you do … then try it! :smile:

(If you don't, I'll show you an example.)

I tried this:
help me!
b^{2}+2ax+2a(\sqrt{b^{2}+x^{2}})-(x+(\sqrt{b^{2}+x^{2}))^{2}
Hey, please help. Dont think that I havnt tried it at all. I have done all that I could. Thanks for the help.
 


ritwik06 said:
I tried this:
help me!
b^{2}+2ax+2a(\sqrt{b^{2}+x^{2}})-(x+(\sqrt{b^{2}+x^{2}))^{2}
Hey, please help. Dont think that I havnt tried it at all. I have done all that I could. Thanks for the help.

ok … two hints:

i] You have two squares to complete, and you need x2 in both of them … so you'll have to split up the -2x2, won't you? :wink:

ii] You know what the answer is, so that gives you a pretty good clue as to what might be left over! :smile:

(And, as I said, get rid of the 2ax first.)
 


tiny-tim said:
ok … two hints:
i] You have two squares to complete, and you need x2 in both of them … so you'll have to split up the -2x2, won't you? :wink:
ii] You know what the answer is, so that gives you a pretty good clue as to what might be left over! :smile:
(And, as I said, get rid of the 2ax first.)

I have worked more on this problem but yet no results come my way;
((a+\sqrt(x^{2}+b^{2}))^{2})-((x-a)^{2})-((x+\sqrt(x^{2}+b^{2}))^{2})
 


ritwik06 said:
I have worked more on this problem but yet no results come my way;
((a+\sqrt(x^{2}+b^{2}))^{2})-((x-a)^{2})-((x+\sqrt(x^{2}+b^{2}))^{2})

ok …

try 2(a-x)(x+\sqrt{x^{2}+b^{2}}) = a^2\ -\ (a-x)^2\ -\ x^2\ +\ 2(a-x)\sqrt{x^{2}+b^{2}} :smile:
 
ritwik06 said:
And the answer to th above question is a^{2}+b^{2}

It is not a correct answer.

But I must admit I have no idea how to complete these squares. Not that I am surprised, I am mathematically challenged. I have solved it by brute force, which was much easier then expected.
 
  • #10
completing the square

Borek said:
It is not a correct answer.

But I must admit I have no idea how to complete these squares. Not that I am surprised, I am mathematically challenged. I have solved it by brute force, which was much easier then expected.

Hi Borek! :smile:

Try adding b^2\ -\ b^2 to my last post. :smile:
 
  • #11
Arrgh. There is nothing like solving different question that was asked. I was looking for x such that the function given gets maximum value. That's for

x = \frac {a^2-b^2} {2a}

but

{a^2+b^2}

is a correct max value.

Thanks TT :smile:
 
  • #12
Thanks a lot Tim.
I had got my answer the day you had posted your second last reply.
Thank you very very much. I am sorry for xpressing my gratitude a bit late. Thanks again.
 
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