Can Both Solutions of This Quadratic Equation Be Perfect Squares?

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In summary, a quadratic equation is an algebraic equation of the form ax^2 + bx + c = 0, with a, b, and c as constants and x as the variable. To determine if a quadratic equation has integer solutions, we can check if the discriminant is a perfect square. This is important because it allows for the possibility of finding integer solutions. To solve a quadratic equation with integer solutions using perfect squares, we first factor the equation and set each factor equal to 0 to find the solutions.
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anemone
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Here is this week's POTW:

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Let $a,\,b,\,c,\,d \in \mathbb{N}$ such that the equation $x^2-(a^2+b^2+c^2+d^2+1)x+ab+bc+cd+da=0$ has an integer solution. Prove that the other solution is integer too and both solutions are perfect squares.

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No one answered POTW #484. However, you can see the suggested solution as follows:

Let $x_1 \le x_2$ are roots. Then we have $x_1+x_2=1+a^2+b^2+c^2+d^2$, therefore if one of the roots is an integer, so the second root is an integer too.

We also have $x_1x_2=ab+bc+cd+da$.

Since $a^2+b^2+c^2+d^2=ab+bc+cd+da+\dfrac{(a-b)^2+(b-c)^2+(c-d)^2+(d-a)^2}{2}$, we get $x_1=1$, $a=b=c=d$ and so $x_2=(2a)^2$.
 

FAQ: Can Both Solutions of This Quadratic Equation Be Perfect Squares?

What is POTW #484 about?

POTW #484 is about integer solutions of quadratic equations with perfect squares. This means finding values for the variables in a quadratic equation that result in a perfect square when solved.

Why are perfect squares important in quadratic equations?

Perfect squares are important in quadratic equations because they allow us to find integer solutions. This means that the values for the variables are whole numbers, making it easier to solve and understand the equation.

How can I identify if a quadratic equation has integer solutions with perfect squares?

A quadratic equation has integer solutions with perfect squares if the discriminant (b^2 - 4ac) is a perfect square itself. This means that when you take the square root of the discriminant, the result is a whole number.

Can you give an example of a quadratic equation with integer solutions and perfect squares?

Sure, an example of a quadratic equation with integer solutions and perfect squares is x^2 + 8x + 16 = 0. The discriminant in this equation is (8^2 - 4*1*16) = 0, which is a perfect square. When solved, the equation results in the solution x = -4, which is a whole number.

How can solving quadratic equations with perfect squares be useful in real life?

Solving quadratic equations with perfect squares can be useful in real life when dealing with problems that involve finding the dimensions or measurements of a square or rectangle. It can also be helpful in calculating the maximum or minimum value of a quadratic function.

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