Solving an Unfamiliar Derivation: Can You Help?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on simplifying the expression x·3·(x - 4)^2 + (x - 4)^3 using the program Derive. The solution involves factoring out the common term (x - 4)^2, leading to the simplified result of 4·(x - 1)·(x - 4)^2. This process highlights the importance of recognizing common factors in polynomial expressions for simplification.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of polynomial expressions and factoring techniques
  • Familiarity with the Derive software for symbolic computation
  • Basic knowledge of algebraic manipulation
  • Experience with common factors in mathematical expressions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study polynomial factoring techniques in algebra
  • Explore advanced features of Derive software for symbolic manipulation
  • Learn about common factor extraction in calculus
  • Investigate other symbolic computation tools like Mathematica or Maple
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Students, educators, and mathematicians seeking to enhance their skills in algebraic simplification and those using Derive for mathematical computations.

Chocolaty
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Okay, I'm using this program called derive, and it usually tells me the steps to derive(duh) but it made a simplification which i don't understand. I'm sure it's just one of those things where i'll slap my own face when i'll know what it was, either that or throw up and roll around in my own bile...

How do you go from:
x·3·(x - 4)^2 + (x - 4)^3

to(the solution):
4·(x - 1)·(x - 4)^2

thanks to whoever answers
<3
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Remove the common factor of (x-4)^2 from the first line.
 

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