(x-3)(x-7)(x-8)=(x-3)(x-7)(x-9)

3 min read Jun 17, 2024
(x-3)(x-7)(x-8)=(x-3)(x-7)(x-9)

Solving the Equation (x-3)(x-7)(x-8) = (x-3)(x-7)(x-9)

This equation presents a unique challenge because it involves a product of three factors on each side. Let's break down the solution step by step:

1. Recognizing the Common Factors

The first step is to notice that both sides of the equation share the factors (x-3) and (x-7). This allows us to simplify the equation significantly.

2. Dividing Both Sides

We can divide both sides of the equation by (x-3)(x-7) as long as these factors are not equal to zero. This gives us:

(x-8) = (x-9)

3. Solving for x

Now we have a simple linear equation. Subtracting x from both sides yields:

-8 = -9

This result is a contradiction, indicating that there is no solution for x that satisfies the original equation.

4. Understanding the Implication

The absence of a solution implies that the initial assumption that (x-3)(x-7) ≠ 0 was incorrect. In other words, either x = 3 or x = 7 must be true for the equation to hold. However, substituting either value into the original equation results in a product of zero on both sides, making the equation true but not providing a solution for x.

Conclusion

The equation (x-3)(x-7)(x-8) = (x-3)(x-7)(x-9) has no solutions for x. This arises from the fact that the common factors (x-3) and (x-7) lead to a contradiction after simplification. The only values of x that make the equation true are x = 3 and x = 7, but these values don't provide a solution in the context of solving for x.

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