Is 27x^6+27x^3y^3+8y^6 Composite for Positive Integers x and y?

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In summary, a composite number is a positive integer with more than two factors, and to prove that a number is composite, it must have at least one factor besides 1 and itself. While most numbers can be proven to be composite, prime numbers cannot because they only have two factors. The main difference between composite and prime numbers is the number of factors they have. Proving a number is composite is important for various mathematical and computational applications, as well as identifying patterns and relationships between numbers.
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Prove that the number $27x^6+27x^3y^3+8y^6$ is composite for any positive integers $x$ and $y$.
 
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Good question

We see that
$27x^6 + 27x^3 y^3 + 8y^ 6$
= $27x^6 - 27 x^3 y^3 + 8y^ 6 + 54 x^3y^3$
= $(3x^2)^3 + (-3xy)^3 + (2y^2)^3 – 3(3x^2)(-3xy)(2y^2)$
Above is
$a^3+ b^3 + c^3 – 3abc = (a + b + c)(a^2 + b^2 + c^2 - ab - ac - cb)$ where $a = 3x^2, b = - 3xy, c = 2y^2$

We are not finished yet. Because one term is –ve we need to show that neither a+b+c is 1 nor other term is 1

a+b+ c = 3x(x-y) + 2y^2 >= 2

$a^2 + b^2 + c^2 – ab –bc – ca \ge ½(a-b)^2$

or $\ge 1/2(3x^2+ 3xy)^2$ so > 2

as both factors are > 1 so this is composite

edited above to correct some typo error ( metioned by anemone in PM)
thanks anemone
 
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  • #3
Well done, kali! You always show us the very insightful way to tackle just about any problem, and again, thanks for participating in my challenge thread.(Sun)
 

FAQ: Is 27x^6+27x^3y^3+8y^6 Composite for Positive Integers x and y?

What is a composite number?

A composite number is a positive integer that has more than two factors. In other words, it is a number that can be divided evenly by numbers other than 1 and itself.

How can I prove that a number is composite?

To prove that a number is composite, you must show that it has at least one factor besides 1 and itself. This can be done by finding the factors of the number through division or using other mathematical techniques such as the Sieve of Eratosthenes.

Can all numbers be proven to be composite or prime?

No, some numbers, known as prime numbers, cannot be proven to be composite because they only have two factors: 1 and themselves. However, most numbers can be proven to be composite by finding their factors.

What is the difference between a composite number and a prime number?

The main difference between a composite number and a prime number is the number of factors they have. Prime numbers have only two factors (1 and themselves), while composite numbers have more than two factors.

Why is it important to prove that a number is composite?

Proving that a number is composite can help in various mathematical and computational applications. It can also help in identifying patterns and relationships between numbers, which can aid in problem-solving and further research.

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