Solving the Quintic Equation x^5+ax+b

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the quintic equation of the form x^5 + ax + b, focusing on the challenges of finding its roots and the implications of solvability in general. Participants explore various methods and theoretical considerations related to this polynomial equation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss potential methods for solving the quintic equation, including numerical approximation and special cases where analytical solutions might exist. There are questions regarding the definition of "solvable" and the implications of Galois Theory in determining solvability.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with various perspectives being shared. Some participants have provided insights into the nature of the quintic equation and its solutions, while others have raised questions about specific definitions and the applicability of certain mathematical theories.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the limitations of finding roots for the quintic equation and the necessity of special functions in certain cases. Additionally, the discussion touches on the implications of the coefficients a and b on the function's properties, particularly regarding its invertibility.

footmath
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how can i solve this equation :
x^5+ax+b
 
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hi footmath! :wink:
footmath said:
how can i solve this equation :
x^5+ax+b

guessin, numerical approximation, or bribing the TA …

otherwise, you can't! :smile:
 
footmath said:
how can i solve this equation :
x^5+ax+b

That isn't an equation; it is just an expression. Perhaps you mean find the roots of it or solve the equation x5+ax+b = 0.

Either way you are pretty much out of luck. The quintic equation is not generally solvable although some special cases are. Whether this one is solvable generally or not, I don't know. But if you have a particular equation in mind so you know a and b, you might be able to solve it if you are lucky or you could solve it numerically.
 
The solutions (real and/or complex) of the quintic equation x5+ax+b = 0 are computed thank to a number of methods of numerical calculus.
Analytical solving is solving is possible in case of some particular values of corfficients a and b.
In the general case, the solutions cannot be expressed in terms of a conbination of a finite number of elementary or usal functions. Special functions are necessary : the solutions can be expessed in terms of Jacobi theta function (which is of no use in practice).
 
thank you .
what do you think about this equation : x^6+x^2+x=y
if you believe that it can not be Solvable prove it please .
 
First, would you mind give your precise definition of "Solvable".
 
Also, does the OP have any experience in group theory? To show a certain quintic is unsolvable requires use of Galois Theory.
 
footmath said:
thank you .
what do you think about this equation : x^6+x^2+x=y
if you believe that it can not be Solvable prove it please .

If what you mean by "solveable" is to find the roots, then yes, because that particular polynomial factors.

x6+x2+x = x(x2+x+1)(x3-x2+1)
 


I want inverse of f(x)=x^5+ax+b
 
  • #10


footmath said:
I want inverse of f(x)=x^5+ax+b

If a < 0 the function is not 1-1 and has no single valued inverse. If a > 0, at least it is increasing and has an inverse. But good luck with finding a formula for it.
 
  • #11
I want inverse of f(x)=x^5+ax+b
The solutions (real and/or complex) of the quintic equation x5+ax+b = 0 are computed thank to a number of methods of numerical calculus.
Analytical solving is solving is possible in case of some particular values of corfficients a and b.
In the general case, the solutions cannot be expressed in terms of a conbination of a finite number of elementary or usal functions. Special functions are necessary : the solutions can be expessed in terms of Jacobi theta function (which is of no use in practice).
 
  • #12

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