Algebra: Is this possible to solve?

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In summary, the conversation discusses an equation that cannot be solved analytically for general numbers b and c. However, the possibility of solving it by introducing a new variable is mentioned, and the equation is rewritten in terms of this variable.
  • #1
Curl
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I came across this type of equation, and somehow I could not figure out how to solve it analytically. I ended up solving it numerically, but now I'm bothered and I want to know if this is possible.

a = (1-exp(b/x) / (1-exp(c/x))

a,b,c, are constants, x is the unknown
 
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  • #2
It cannot be solved analytically for general numbers b and c.

EDIT:

suppose you introduce a new variable:

[tex]
y \equiv \exp\left(\frac{b}{x}\right)
[/tex]

Then, for the other exponential, you would have:
[tex]
\exp\left(\frac{c}{x}\right) = \exp\left(\frac{c}{b} \, \frac{b}{x}\right) = \left[\exp\left(\frac{b}{x}\right)\right]^{\frac{c}{b}} = y^{c/b}
[/tex]

and the equation becomes:

[tex]
a = \frac{1 - y}{1 - y^{c/b}}
[/tex]

[tex]
y = 1 - a ( 1 - y^{c/b})
[/tex]
 
Last edited:

FAQ: Algebra: Is this possible to solve?

Is it possible to solve any algebraic equation?

Yes, it is possible to solve any algebraic equation as long as it follows the fundamental rules of algebra and has a defined solution. However, some equations may have complex or imaginary solutions.

What is the order of operations in algebra?

The order of operations in algebra follows the acronym PEMDAS, which stands for Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (from left to right), and Addition and Subtraction (from left to right).

Can I solve an equation with multiple variables?

Yes, equations with multiple variables can be solved by using algebraic techniques such as substitution, elimination, or graphing. However, the number of equations must match the number of variables to find a unique solution.

Do I need to simplify my equation before solving it?

In most cases, it is recommended to simplify an equation before solving it. This involves combining like terms and reducing fractions to make the equation easier to solve and understand.

How do I check if my solution is correct?

You can check your solution by substituting the value you found for the variable back into the original equation. If both sides of the equation are equal, then your solution is correct. You can also use a graphing calculator to visualize the solution and confirm its accuracy.

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