Can You Solve This Math Challenge Without a Calculator?

  • MHB
  • Thread starter anemone
  • Start date
In summary, there are several strategies for computing values without a calculator, such as using mental math or estimation techniques. While it may not be as precise as using a calculator, with practice and the right techniques, it is possible to achieve accurate results. Some tips for improving mental math skills include regular practice, learning shortcuts and tricks, and using pen and paper to solve problems. Additionally, there are many resources and tools available, such as online tutorials and physical tools like an abacus or slide rule.
  • #1
anemone
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Compute the value of $\left\lfloor \dfrac{2005^3}{2003\cdot 2004}-\dfrac{2003^3}{2004\cdot 2005} \right\rfloor$ without the help of a calculator where $\lfloor x \rfloor$ denotes the greatest integer less than $x$.

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  • #2
Congratulations to the following members for their correct solutions!:)

1. kaliprasad
2. MarkFL
3. mente oscura
4. lfdahl

Solution from kaliprasad:
To keep the arithmetic simple put

2004 = x to get

$\frac{(x+1)^3}{x(x-1)} - \frac{(x-1)^3}{x(x+1)}$
= $\frac{(x+1)^4 – (x-1)^4}{x(x+1)(x-1)}$
= $\frac{2 (4x^3 + 4x)}{(x(x+1)(x-1)}$
=$\frac{8x(x^2+1)}{x(x^2-1)}$
= $\frac{8(x^2 + 1)}{(x^2-1)}$
= $8 + \frac{16}{x^2-1}$

Now the beauty is for any x $\ge$ 5 the 2nd term is between 0 and one so integral part is 8

Hence ans is 8.

Alternate solution from mente oscura:
[tex]\dfrac{2005^3}{2003\cdot 2004}-\dfrac{2003^3}{2004\cdot 2005}[/tex]

[tex]= \dfrac{1}{2003\cdot 2004\cdot 2005} \ (2005^4-2003^4)[/tex]

[tex]= \dfrac{1}{2003\cdot 2004\cdot 2005} \ (2005^2+2003^2) \ (2005+2003) \ (2005-2003)[/tex]

[tex]= \dfrac{1}{2003\cdot 2005} \ (2005^2+2003^2) \cdot 2\cdot 2[/tex]

[tex]= 4\cdot (\dfrac{2005}{2003}+\dfrac{2003}{2005})[/tex]

[tex]= 4\cdot (1+\dfrac{2}{2003}+1-\dfrac{2}{2005})=4\cdot (2+\dfrac{2}{2003}-\dfrac{2}{2005})[/tex]

Such that:

[tex]0< \dfrac{2}{2003}-\dfrac{2}{2005} < \dfrac{1}{4}[/tex]

Therefore:

[tex]\left\lfloor \dfrac{2005^3}{2003\cdot 2004}-\dfrac{2003^3}{2004\cdot 2005} \right\rfloor= 8[/tex]
 

Related to Can You Solve This Math Challenge Without a Calculator?

1. How do I compute values without using a calculator?

There are several strategies for computing values without a calculator, such as using mental math or estimation techniques. You can also break down the problem into smaller parts and use basic arithmetic operations.

2. Is it possible to accurately compute values without a calculator?

Yes, it is possible to compute values without a calculator. While it may not be as precise as using a calculator, with practice and the right techniques, you can achieve accurate results.

3. What are some tips for improving my mental math skills?

One tip is to practice regularly and challenge yourself with increasingly difficult problems. You can also learn shortcuts and tricks, such as memorizing multiplication tables or using rounding to estimate answers.

4. Can I use a pen and paper to help me compute values without a calculator?

Yes, you can use pen and paper to help you with computation. For example, you can write out the problem and use long division or multiplication to solve it step-by-step.

5. Are there any resources or tools I can use to help me compute values without a calculator?

Yes, there are many resources and tools available to help you compute values without a calculator. You can find online tutorials, practice problems, and even mental math games to improve your skills. You can also use physical tools such as an abacus or a slide rule.

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