Solving the Equation (vi) (x+2)(3x+4)(3x+7)(x+3)=2400
This problem involves solving a fourth-degree polynomial equation. Here's a step-by-step approach to find the solutions:
1. Expand the Equation
Begin by expanding the left side of the equation:
- First, multiply the first two factors and the last two factors:
- (x+2)(3x+4) = 3x² + 10x + 8
- (3x+7)(x+3) = 3x² + 16x + 21
- Then multiply the resulting expressions:
- (3x² + 10x + 8)(3x² + 16x + 21) = 9x⁴ + 98x³ + 289x² + 272x + 168
Now the equation becomes: 9x⁴ + 98x³ + 289x² + 272x + 168 = 2400
2. Rearrange the Equation
Subtract 2400 from both sides to set the equation to zero:
9x⁴ + 98x³ + 289x² + 272x - 2232 = 0
3. Finding the Solutions
Unfortunately, there's no straightforward algebraic method to solve a fourth-degree polynomial equation. Here are common approaches:
- Factoring: Try to factor the equation. This might be possible if there are rational roots. However, it's often difficult to factor higher-degree polynomials directly.
- Rational Root Theorem: This theorem helps find potential rational roots. If a rational number p/q is a root, then p must be a factor of the constant term (-2232) and q must be a factor of the leading coefficient (9).
- Numerical Methods: Use numerical methods like the Newton-Raphson method or graphing calculators to approximate the solutions.
4. Using Numerical Methods (Example with Newton-Raphson)
The Newton-Raphson method is an iterative process. To use it, you need:
- The function: f(x) = 9x⁴ + 98x³ + 289x² + 272x - 2232
- Its derivative: f'(x) = 36x³ + 294x² + 578x + 272
Steps:
- Choose an initial guess (x₀). You might try a value close to where the graph of the function crosses the x-axis.
- Iterate using the formula: xₙ₊₁ = xₙ - f(xₙ) / f'(xₙ)
- Repeat step 2 until the value of x converges to a solution.
Note: The Newton-Raphson method may not always converge, and you might need to try different initial guesses.
Conclusion
Solving the equation (vi) (x+2)(3x+4)(3x+7)(x+3)=2400 involves expanding the equation, rearranging it, and then using numerical methods or potentially factoring to find the solutions. While factoring can be challenging for higher-degree polynomials, numerical methods like the Newton-Raphson method offer a robust way to approximate the solutions.