What is the solution to the unsolved equation?

  • Thread starter Thread starter kazimo
  • Start date Start date
AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers around the equation ((1)^k) + ((2)^k) + ... + ((n)^k) = ((n+1)^k) and seeks to identify suitable values for n and k. The initial example provided, ((1)^2) + ((2)^2) = ((3)^2), is quickly dismissed as incorrect, leading to the clarification that the correct formulation should be ((1)^1) + ((2)^1) = ((3)^1). The conversation explores the potential for solutions when k is an odd number and n is negative, suggesting that this could allow for alternative solutions. Additionally, there is a mention of series summation formulas, specifically relating to geometric series, indicating a deeper mathematical exploration of the problem. The participants express a mix of confusion and insight as they navigate through the complexities of the equation and its implications.
kazimo
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Hey,
I am kinda new here but here's a problem for you guys:

There is an equation of the form:
((1)^k)+((2)^k)+...+((n-1)^k)+((n)^k) = ((n+1)^k)

This equation is such that all the numbers starting from1 till n are raised to the power of k and added and the result is (n+1)^k. What should n and k be?

Apart from ((1)^2) + ((2)^2) = ((3^2)) There isn't any other obvious answer. ( These were the first numbers I tried when I began trying to solve this problem.

Kazim
 
Physics news on Phys.org
((1)^2) + ((2)^2) = ((3^2))?

Is this true? :confused:
 
Clearly, it is not.

But 1+2=3 is true. And there's a more trivial solution : 1^0 = 2^0.
 
rajesh said:
((1)^2) + ((2)^2) = ((3^2))?

Is this true? :confused:

It was a typo ...it should have been

(1^1)+(2^1)=(3^1)
 
I just did a mistake.. it was supposed to be

((1)^1) + ((2)^1) = ((3)^1)

I will be careful in the future
 
I believe that if k was an odd number and n was negative then it would be possible to solve it another way. With a negative number in there you can counteract all of the adding of things.
 
is the original problem like this:

k
sigma (n^c) where c is any real constant
n=1

i was trying to figure that out, but if yours is

k
sigma (c^n) where c is any real constant,
n=1

then i think the sum is {[c^(k+1)]/(c-1)}-[1/(c-1)]

hope this helps
 
I think about the closest series to that is 1+2+4+8++2^N =2^(n+1)-1. This comes about because 1 +r +r^2+r^n=\frac{-1+r^_(n+1)}{r-1}
but, of course, 2-1=1, so the denominator disappears.
 
Last edited:
Back
Top