Triangle Lengths: Can $a,b,c$ Form a Triangle?

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The equation \(a^2 + 5b^2 + 4c^2 - 4ab - 4bc = 0\) defines a quadratic relationship among the sides \(a\), \(b\), and \(c\). Upon rearranging and analyzing the discriminant, it is established that the values of \(a\), \(b\), and \(c\) can indeed form a triangle if they satisfy the triangle inequality theorem. The discussion concludes that specific values of \(a\), \(b\), and \(c\) can be derived from this equation, confirming their potential as triangle sides.

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Three positive real numbers $a,\,b$ and $c$ are such that $a^2+5b^2+4c^2-4ab-4bc=0$. Can $a,\,b$ and $c$ be the lengths of the sides of a triangle? Justify your answer.
 
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We have

$a^2+5b^2+4c^2-4ab-4bc=0$

Or $a^2-4ab + 4b^2 + b^2 - 4bc + 4c^2 = 0$

Or $(a-2b)^2 + (b- 2c)^2= 0$

Because a,b,c are real so each part is zero

This gives the solution a = 2b and b = 4c

Or a = 4c, b =2c and so $a > b+ c$

so the answer is no
 

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