MHB What Are the Integer Solutions for the Equation Involving Powers of Two?

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The discussion revolves around finding integer solutions for the equation 2^w + 2^x + 2^y + 2^z = 1288. Participants emphasize the constraints w > x > y > z and explore various approaches to solve the equation. One participant acknowledges a correct answer while suggesting an alternative method for finding the solutions. The conversation highlights the complexity of the problem and the importance of adhering to the integer constraints. Ultimately, the goal is to identify valid integers x, y, z, and w that satisfy the equation.
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$x,y,z,w $ are all integers

if (1):$ w>x>y>z$

and(2) :$2^w+2^x+2^y+2^z=1288\dfrac {1}{4} $

find $x,y,z,w$
 
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Albert said:
$x,y,z,w $ are all integers

if (1):$ w>x>y>z$

and(2) :$2^w+2^x+2^y+2^z=1288\dfrac {1}{4} $

find $x,y,z,w$

Hello.

z=-2

2^w+2^x+2^y=1288=2^3*161

y=3

2^{w-3}+2^{x-3}=161-1=160=2^5*5

x-3=5 \rightarrow{} x=8

2^{w-8}=5-1=2^2 \rightarrow{} w=10

Therefore:

z=-2, \ / \ y=3, \ / \ x=8, \ / \ w=10

Regards.
 
mente oscura said:
Hello.

z=-2

2^w+2^x+2^y=1288=2^3*161

y=3

2^{w-3}+2^{x-3}=161-1=160=2^5*5

x-3=5 \rightarrow{} x=8

2^{w-8}=5-1=2^2 \rightarrow{} w=10

Therefore:

z=-2, \ / \ y=3, \ / \ x=8, \ / \ w=10

Regards.

very good :) your answer is correct
 
Albert said:
$x,y,z,w $ are all integers

if (1):$ w>x>y>z$

and(2) :$2^w+2^x+2^y+2^z=1288\dfrac {1}{4} $

find $x,y,z,w$

The given ans is good.
I would proceed differently

as sum of 2 different powers of 2 cannot be a power of 2 so each of them shall be a power of 2 so put as sum of power of 2

$1288 \dfrac {1}{4} = 1024 + 256 + 8 + \dfrac {1}{4} = 2^{10} + 2^8 + 2^3 + 2^{-2}$

giving w = 10, x = 8, y = 3, z = -2
 
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