Solve a, b, c: Step-by-Step Guide

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The discussion revolves around a potential typo in a math problem involving a function f(x). Participants agree that if f(x) is incorrectly stated as f(x) = 0 for all x, it leads to an illogical conclusion since f(-2) = -6 contradicts this. Clarification is suggested that f(x) = 0 should refer to a specific value of x, allowing for three equations to be formed with the variables a, b, and c. The importance of typing out problems instead of using handwritten attachments is also emphasized for clarity. Overall, the focus is on resolving the equations correctly based on the intended question.
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Homework Statement



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Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


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What do I do from here?
 

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think there is a typo in the question. Where it says "f(x) = 0", x should be a number, the same as in f(4) = 0 and f(-2) = -6.

You did the right thing setting up two equations in a, b, and c. If the question was printed correctly you would be able to get three equations.

If f(x) = 0 for every value of x, then a = b = c = 0, but that doesn't make any sense when the question says f(-2) = -6.
 
AlephZero said:
think there is a typo in the question. Where it says "f(x) = 0", x should be a number, the same as in f(4) = 0 and f(-2) = -6.

You did the right thing setting up two equations in a, b, and c. If the question was printed correctly you would be able to get three equations.

If f(x) = 0 for every value of x, then a = b = c = 0, but that doesn't make any sense when the question says f(-2) = -6.

I suspect it means that ##f(x_0) = 0## for some specified value of ##x_0## with ##x_0 \neq -2,4##. Then you would, indeed, have three (linear) equations in the three unknowns a,b,c, and you ought to be able to write the solution.

I never read photo attachments of handwritten work, so I will not comment on your efforts. (PF standards actually say you should type out stuff except for unusual circumstances, such as including diagrams from books or whatever.)
 
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