Solving Difficult Sums: a+x and 1/p+q+x Equations Explained

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The discussion revolves around solving two complex equations: (a+x)^(1/3) + (a-x)^(1/3) = b and 1/(p+q+x) = 1/p + 1/q + 1/x. For the first equation, it is suggested to substitute x with a + t^3, leading to a simpler form that allows for cubing both sides to eliminate the t^3 term, resulting in a quadratic equation. The second equation requires clarification on the correct interpretation of the terms, emphasizing the importance of using parentheses for clarity. The original poster expresses gratitude for the hints and confirms they have found the solution.
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Hi there!
Here are a few sums that are making me go nuts:cry:( actually can't get any clue how to solve:confused:)
so here they are
( a+x)^1/3 + (a-x)^1/3= b
( Gosh I wish there could be some rule so that we could straight away write a^ 1/3 and x^1/3 anyway:-p)
And 1/p+q+x=1/p+1/q+1/x
I WOULD BE RALLY VERY THANKFUL IF ANYONE COULD GIVE A "HINT:cry:"!
THANK YOU:smile:
 
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When you have fractional exponents written as you have them, use parentheses around the exponent. The 1/3 power is the same as the cube root.

\sqrt[3]{a + x} + \sqrt[3]{a + x}~=~2\sqrt[3]{a + x}
Now, divide both sides of your equation by 2, and then cube both sides.

For you other problem, 1/p+q+x=1/p+1/q+1/x, it's hard to say anything without knowing exactly what the problem is -- use parentheses.
As you have written it, the problem is (1/p) + q + x = 1/p+1/q+1/x. I suspect that you meant the left side to be 1/(p + q + x), but I'm not sure.
 
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Ya it's 1/(p+q+x)
 
Sorry i got the sign wrong it should be
( a+x)^1/3 + (a-x)^1/3= b
I am REALLY VERY SORRRRRY!
 
That makes it a different, and harder, problem...
 
Substitute x =a + t^3 to write this as:

(2a + t^3)^1/3 - t = b ------->

(2a + t^3)^1/3 = b + t

Take the cube of both sides. You'll see that the t^3 term cancels, so you have a quadratic equation for t.
 
Thanks A LOT . :smile::smile:
I have figured the answer !:biggrin:
 
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