Solving the Equation: (x - 15)^6 + 2(15 - x)^2 = 0
This equation presents a unique challenge due to the presence of both a sixth power term and a squared term. We can use a few key algebraic manipulations to solve for the value of x.
Simplifying the Equation
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Recognize the pattern: Notice that the terms (x - 15) and (15 - x) are essentially the same, just with opposite signs. We can rewrite the second term using the property (-1)^2 = 1:
(x - 15)^6 + 2(-1)^2 (x - 15)^2 = 0
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Factor out the common term: Both terms share (x - 15)^2 as a common factor. Let's factor it out:
(x - 15)^2 [(x - 15)^4 + 2] = 0
Solving for x
Now we have a product of two factors that equals zero. This means at least one of the factors must be equal to zero:
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Factor 1: (x - 15)^2 = 0
- Taking the square root of both sides: x - 15 = 0
- Solving for x: x = 15
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Factor 2: (x - 15)^4 + 2 = 0
- Subtracting 2 from both sides: (x - 15)^4 = -2
- This equation has no real solutions, as any real number raised to an even power cannot be negative.
Conclusion
Therefore, the only real solution to the equation (x - 15)^6 + 2(15 - x)^2 = 0 is x = 15.