What is the 5th term of the expansion of $(2x+7)^8$ using the Binomial Theorem?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the 5th term of the expansion of the expression $(2x+7)^8$ using the Binomial Theorem. The focus is on the application of the theorem to determine specific terms in the expansion.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about how to determine the 5th term of the expansion.
  • Another participant confirms the applicability of the Binomial Theorem and provides the general formula for the expansion.
  • A later reply presents a specific calculation for the 5th term, stating it as $2689120{x}^{4}$.
  • Another participant details the calculation process, showing the use of the binomial coefficients and powers in their computation.
  • One participant comments on the possibility of students multiplying the expression directly to find the term, suggesting a lack of familiarity with the theorem could lead to alternative methods.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the use of the Binomial Theorem for this problem, but there is a mix of approaches and levels of confidence regarding the calculation of the specific term.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the determination of the 5th term, and there may be assumptions regarding familiarity with the Binomial Theorem that are not explicitly stated.

karush
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Find the 5th term of $(2x+7)^8$

Assume Binomial Theorem can be used on this.
not sure what determines the 5th term
 
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karush said:
Find the 5th term of $(2x+7)^8$

Assume Binomial Theorem can be used on this.
not sure what determines the 5th term

Yes, the binomial theorem is your friend here...and it states:

$$(a+b)^n=\sum_{k=0}^n\left({n \choose k}a^{n-k}b^k\right)$$

And so the $m$th term of the expansion would be for $m=k+1$...can you proceed?
 
${5}^{th}$ term =
$$2689120{x}^{4}$$

😍😍😍
 
I get:

$${8 \choose 4}(2x)^{8-4}(7)^4=70\cdot16x^4\cdot7^4=2689120x^4\checkmark$$
 
If this was on the exam, some students could multiply 2x + 7 itself 8 times and get the desired result.
Hopefully, the student has studied the binomial theorem before the exam!
 

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