Quick Question: Write \frac{2\sqrt x+3}{x} in the Form 2x^p + 3x^q

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves rewriting the expression \(\frac{2\sqrt{x}+3}{x}\) in the form \(2x^p + 3x^q\), where \(p\) and \(q\) are constants. The subject area pertains to algebra and exponent rules.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss different methods to manipulate the expression, including attempts to eliminate the denominator and rewrite terms using exponent rules. Some question the implications of the problem's requirements for distinct powers \(p\) and \(q\).

Discussion Status

Several participants have provided hints and guidance on how to approach the problem without altering the original expression. There is an ongoing exploration of how to express the terms in the desired form, with some participants expressing uncertainty about their own reasoning.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight the importance of maintaining equality when manipulating expressions, cautioning against operations that could change the original problem's intent. There are also mentions of potential misunderstandings regarding exponent rules and the representation of square roots.

_Mayday_
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[SOLVED] Quick Question

Hey!

This question may tex ability :shy:

The Question
Write [tex]\frac{2\sqrt x+3}{x}[/tex] in the form [tex]2x^p + 3x^q[/tex] where p and q are constants.

Attempt :eek:

[tex]\frac{2\sqrt x+3}{x} \times x[/tex]

[tex]2x + 3x[/tex]

I basically multiplied the initial equation by x to get rid of the denominator, and now I have what looks like a close to correct answer, but without p and q, either p or q could be one but I think the fact that they have asked for p and q would suggest that they powers must be different.

Thanks to any helpers =]

_Mayday_
 
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Can you write [itex]2\sqrt x/x[/itex] in the form [itex]2x^p[/itex]?

Can you write [itex]3/x[/itex] in the form [itex]3x^q[/itex]?

Hint: don't multiply by x, this gives something different than what you started with (and are supposed to evaluate).
 
Heed Avodyne's advice! Say you were asked to reduce 64/8 and you decided to multiply by 8 to get rid of the denominator. You now have a different number. Don't confuse this with equations, where you can perform an operation to both sides (like division) and maintain the equality.
 
Avodyne said:
Can you write [itex]2\sqrt x/x[/itex] in the form [itex]2x^p[/itex]?

Can you write [itex]3/x[/itex] in the form [itex]3x^q[/itex]?

Hint: don't multiply by x, this gives something different than what you started with (and are supposed to evaluate).

[tex]x^{\frac{1}{2}}/x[/tex]

[tex]3x^{-1}[/tex]

I don't think I got the first bit correct...

Rashad9607 said:
Heed Avodyne's advice! Say you were asked to reduce 64/8 and you decided to multiply by 8 to get rid of the denominator. You now have a different number. Don't confuse this with equations, where you can perform an operation to both sides (like division) and maintain the equality.

Thanks
 
Basic algebra:
[tex] \frac{2\sqrt x+3}{x} = \frac{2\sqrt{x}}{x} + \frac{3}{x} = 2 \frac{\sqrt{x}}{x} + 3 \frac{1}{x}[/tex]
 
I have the 3 but now, but I am still struggling with the root x. Please try and explain how it works.

Thank you very much for your help so far though, my maths is actually quite good but I have these little cracks I need filling in...

Thanks again.
 
You are correct that [itex]\sqrt{3}= 3^{1/2}[/itex]. Now what about the 1/x? What do the "laws of exponents" tell you about [itex]x^m/x^n[/itex]?
 
Okay, I will take your post above as an example HallsofIvy? I tried looking for the root 3 but couldn't find it in my working! :smile:

I will take it that my answer is right:

[tex]x^\frac{1}{2}/x[/tex]

which gives me...

[tex]x^\frac{1}{2} - x^{-1} = x^\frac {-1}{2}[/tex]



Thanks Halls, I hope I am right...
 
_Mayday_ said:
Okay, I will take your post above as an example HallsofIvy? I tried looking for the root 3 but couldn't find it in my working! :smile:

I will take it that my answer is right:

[tex]x^\frac{1}{2}/x[/tex]

which gives me...

[tex]x^\frac{1}{2} - x^{-1} = x^\frac {-1}{2}[/tex]



Thanks Halls, I hope I am right...

Eh, your answer is right but oddly derived.

[tex]\frac{x^\frac{1}{2}}{x}=x^{\frac{1}{2}-1}=x^{\frac{-1}{2}}[/tex]
 
  • #10
It was just a typo. He meant
[tex]x^{\frac{1}{2}}\times x^{-1}= x^{-\frac{1}{2}}[/tex]
 
  • #11
I appreciate all of your help everyone, thankyou!

_Mayday_
 

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