SUMMARY
The distinct real numbers \(a, b, c, d\) defined by the equations \(a=\sqrt{4+\sqrt{5+a}}, b=\sqrt{4-\sqrt{5+b}}, c=\sqrt{4+\sqrt{5-c}}, d=\sqrt{4-\sqrt{5-d}}\) yield a product of \(abcd = 11\). The roots of the polynomial \(x^4 - 8x^2 + x + 11 = 0\) are critical in establishing this result. The analysis shows that the roots consist of two positive and two negative values, confirming that the absolute values of these roots correspond to \(a, b, c, d\). Thus, the product of these absolute values is definitively \(11\).
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of polynomial equations, specifically quartic equations.
- Familiarity with the properties of square roots and their manipulation.
- Knowledge of the relationship between roots and coefficients in polynomial equations.
- Basic algebraic skills to perform squaring and rearranging of equations.
NEXT STEPS
- Study the properties of quartic equations, focusing on root behavior and symmetry.
- Learn about the techniques for solving polynomial equations, including factoring and synthetic division.
- Explore the implications of the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra on real and complex roots.
- Investigate the application of Descartes' Rule of Signs to determine the number of positive and negative roots.
USEFUL FOR
Mathematicians, students studying algebra, and anyone interested in solving polynomial equations and understanding their roots will benefit from this discussion.