Possible integer values for coefficients of cubic equation with given root

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding possible integer values for the coefficients \(a\), \(b\), \(c\), and \(d\) of a cubic equation \(ax^3 + bx^2 + cx + d = 0\), given that \(x = \sqrt[3]{\sqrt{8}+4} - \sqrt[3]{\sqrt{8}-4\) is a root. The focus is on the mathematical reasoning and exploration of potential solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that the expression for \(x\) can be simplified or manipulated to derive the coefficients.
  • Others discuss the implications of \(x\) being a root and how that affects the relationships between \(a\), \(b\), \(c\), and \(d\).
  • A later reply acknowledges the contributions of specific participants without introducing new claims or solutions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion does not appear to reach a consensus on the specific integer values for the coefficients, and multiple approaches to the problem are suggested without resolution.

Contextual Notes

The discussion may be limited by assumptions regarding the nature of the roots and the integer constraints on the coefficients, which are not fully explored.

anemone
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Given $a,\,b,\,c$ and $d$ are all integers such that $x=\sqrt[3]{\sqrt{8}+4}-\sqrt[3]{\sqrt{8}-4}$ is a root to the equation $ax^3+bx^2+cx+d=0$. Find the possible values for $(a,\,b,\,c,\,d)$.
 
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anemone said:
Given $a,\,b,\,c$ and $d$ are all integers such that $x=\sqrt[3]{\sqrt{8}+4}-\sqrt[3]{\sqrt{8}-4}$ is a root to the equation $ax^3+bx^2+cx+d=0$. Find the possible values for $(a,\,b,\,c,\,d)$.

$x=\sqrt[3]{\sqrt{8}+4}-\sqrt[3]{\sqrt{8}-4}$
cube both sides to get
$x^3 = \sqrt{8}+4 - (\sqrt{8}- 4) - 3\sqrt[3]((\sqrt{8}+4)(\sqrt{8}-4))x$
or $x^3=8-3\sqrt[3](8-16)x=8+6x$
or $x^3- 6x -8=0$ so $a = t, b = 0, c = -6t , d= -8t $ where t is any non zero integer
 
Last edited:
$$\begin{align*}x^3 &= \sqrt{8} + 4 - \sqrt{8} + 4 + 3\left( -\left(\sqrt[3]{\sqrt{8} + 4}\right)^2 \sqrt[3]{\sqrt{8} - 4} + \sqrt[3]{\sqrt{8} + 4} \left(\sqrt[3]{\sqrt{8} - 4}\right)^2 \right) \\
&= 8 + 3\sqrt[3]{\sqrt{8} + 4} \sqrt[3]{\sqrt{8} - 4}\left( -x \right) \\
&= 8 - 3\sqrt[3]{8-16}x \\
&= 8 + 6x \end{align*}$$

Thus

$$a = t,\ b = 0,\ c = -6t,\ d = -8t,\ t \in \mathbb{R} \smallsetminus 0.$$
 
Hi kaliprasad and Theia!

Very well done to the both of you! And thanks for participating!
 

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