Can Factoring Be Considered a Skill?

  • MHB
  • Thread starter mathland
  • Start date
In summary, the conversation involved discussing the best approach for solving a math problem involving logarithms. The suggestion was made to divide 343 by 7 and then use the factoring trick to find the solution without needing to use logarithms. The conversation then turned to the importance of knowing math skills and the idea that once the mind is exposed to a new idea, it cannot go back to its original dimension.
  • #1
mathland
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I say we take the log on both sides as step one.

Yes?
 
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  • #3
The first thing I would do is start dividing 343 by 7! 343- 40(7)= 343- 280= 63= 9(7) so \(\displaystyle 343= 7(49)= 7(7)(7)= 7^3\). \(\displaystyle \sqrt{343}= 7^{3/2}\) so \(\displaystyle 7^{2n}= 7^{3/2}\) so \(\displaystyle 2n= 3/2\), n= 3/4.

No logarithms necessary!
 
  • #4
Country Boy said:
The first thing I would do is start dividing 343 by 7! 343- 40(7)= 343- 280= 63= 9(7) so \(\displaystyle 343= 7(49)= 7(7)(7)= 7^3\). \(\displaystyle \sqrt{343}= 7^{3/2}\) so \(\displaystyle 7^{2n}= 7^{3/2}\) so \(\displaystyle 2n= 3/2\), n= 3/4.

No logarithms necessary!

Nicely done! It pays to know math tricks.
 
  • #5
Beer soaked non sequitur ramblings follow.
mathland said:
Nicely done! It pays to know math tricks.
A man's mind stretched by a new idea can never go back to its original dimension.
 
  • #6
I don't think I would consider factoring a "trick".
 
  • #7
Country Boy said:
I don't think I would consider factoring a "trick".

I meant to say skill not trick.
 

FAQ: Can Factoring Be Considered a Skill?

Can factoring be considered a skill?

Yes, factoring can be considered a skill. It involves the ability to break down a mathematical expression or equation into smaller parts in order to simplify or solve it.

Is factoring an important skill to have?

Yes, factoring is an important skill to have in mathematics. It is often used in algebra, calculus, and other branches of math to solve equations and simplify expressions.

What are the benefits of being able to factor?

Being able to factor allows you to solve complex equations and simplify expressions, making math problems easier to understand and solve. It also helps to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Can factoring be useful in real-life situations?

Yes, factoring can be useful in real-life situations such as budgeting, calculating interest rates, and solving business problems. It can also be applied in fields such as engineering, physics, and computer science.

How can I improve my factoring skills?

Practicing regularly and familiarizing yourself with different factoring techniques can help improve your factoring skills. You can also seek help from a tutor or use online resources to learn and practice factoring.

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