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

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving equations involving fractional exponents and sums, specifically focusing on the equations (a+x)^(1/3) + (a-x)^(1/3) = b and 1/(p+q+x) = 1/p + 1/q + 1/x. Participants express confusion and seek hints for approaching these problems.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the notation of fractional exponents and the potential need for parentheses for clarity. There are attempts to rewrite the equations and suggestions for substitutions to simplify the problem. Questions arise regarding the interpretation of the second equation and its correct formulation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing hints and alternative approaches. Some guidance has been offered regarding rewriting the equations and considering substitutions, though there is no explicit consensus on a single method or solution.

Contextual Notes

Participants have noted issues with notation and clarity in the problem statements, which may affect the understanding and approach to solving the equations. There is also a mention of a change in the problem's complexity due to a correction in the equation.

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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:
 
Last edited:
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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.

[tex]\sqrt[3]{a + x} + \sqrt[3]{a + x}~=~2\sqrt[3]{a + x}[/tex]
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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