Find the largest positive real root

In summary, to find the largest positive real solution to the equation $7x\sqrt{x+1}-3=2x^2+3x$, we first square both sides to get $4x^4 - 37x^3 - 28x^2 + 18x + 9 = 0.$ This factors into $\bigl(x^2 - 9x - 9\bigr)\bigl(4x^2 - x - 1\bigr) = 0.$ The positive roots are $\frac12\bigl(9+3\sqrt{13}\bigr)$ and $\frac18\bigl(1+ \sqrt{17}\bigr)$. The first of
  • #1
anemone
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Find the largest positive real solution to the equation $7x\sqrt{x+1}-3=2x^2+3x$.
 
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  • #2
[sp]$7x\sqrt{x+1} = 2x^2+3x + 3$. Square both sides: $49x^2(x+1) = \bigl(2x^2+3x + 3\bigr)^2 = 4x^4 + 12x^3 + 21x^2 + 18x + 9$, so that $4x^4 - 37x^3 - 28x^2 + 18x + 9 = 0.$ That factorises as $\bigl(x^2 - 9x - 9\bigr)\bigl(4x^2 - x - 1\bigr) = 0.$ The positive roots are $\frac12\bigl(9+3\sqrt{13}\bigr)$ and $\frac18\bigl(1+ \sqrt{17}\bigr)$. The first of those is the larger. But it came from squaring the original equation, so we have to check that it satisfies that equation and was not introduced by squaring. It does satisfy the original equation, so the answer is $\frac12\bigl(9+3\sqrt{13}\bigr) \approx 9.908.$[/sp]
 
  • #3
Opalg said:
[sp]$7x\sqrt{x+1} = 2x^2+3x + 3$. Square both sides: $49x^2(x+1) = \bigl(2x^2+3x + 3\bigr)^2 = 4x^4 + 12x^3 + 21x^2 + 18x + 9$, so that $4x^4 - 37x^3 - 28x^2 + 18x + 9 = 0.$ That factorises as $\bigl(x^2 - 9x - 9\bigr)\bigl(4x^2 - x - 1\bigr) = 0.$ The positive roots are $\frac12\bigl(9+3\sqrt{13}\bigr)$ and $\frac18\bigl(1+ \sqrt{17}\bigr)$. The first of those is the larger. But it came from squaring the original equation, so we have to check that it satisfies that equation and was not introduced by squaring. It does satisfy the original equation, so the answer is $\frac12\bigl(9+3\sqrt{13}\bigr) \approx 9.908.$[/sp]

Thank you for participating, Opalg...your answer is correct and your method is neat.:)
 

FAQ: Find the largest positive real root

What is the definition of a positive real root?

A positive real root is a value that, when substituted into an equation, satisfies the equation and is greater than zero.

Why is it important to find the largest positive real root?

Finding the largest positive real root can be useful in many applications, such as in economics, engineering, and physics, as it can help determine the maximum value or point of stability for a system.

What methods can be used to find the largest positive real root?

Some common methods for finding the largest positive real root include using the quadratic formula, factoring, and graphing the equation.

Are there any limitations to finding the largest positive real root?

Yes, there are some limitations to finding the largest positive real root. For example, some equations may not have real roots, or there may be multiple positive real roots. Additionally, some methods may not work for certain types of equations.

How can the largest positive real root be used in practical applications?

The largest positive real root can be used in practical applications to determine the maximum value or point of stability for a system, to find the optimal solution for a problem, or to analyze the behavior of a system over time.

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