Simultaneous Equations Challenge

Again, thanks so much for participating in my recent challenges at MHB, kali!In summary, the system of equations can be solved by recognizing the relationship $a=-b$ and using trigonometric substitution to find the solutions.
  • #1
anemone
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Solve the system of equations below:

$(a+\sqrt{a^2+1})(b+\sqrt{b^2+1})=1$

$b+\dfrac{b}{\sqrt{a^2-1}}+\dfrac{35}{12}=0$
 
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  • #2
anemone said:
Solve the system of equations below:

$(a+\sqrt{a^2+1})(b+\sqrt{b^2+1})=1$

$b+\dfrac{b}{\sqrt{a^2-1}}+\dfrac{35}{12}=0$
From the 2nd equation we have b < 0 say - c

So from 1 we get $(\sqrt{a^2+1}+a)(\sqrt{c^2+1}-c) = 1$
as we have $(\sqrt{a^2+1}+a)(\sqrt{a^2+1}-a) = 1$
so we get $\sqrt{a^2+1}-a= \sqrt{c^2+1}-c$
as $\sqrt{a^2+1}-a$ is monotonically decreasing we get $a =c$
hence $b = - a$
now from second putting $a=\sec\,t$

$\sec\,t + \sec\,t \,\cot\,t = \dfrac{35}{12}$

or $\dfrac{\sin\,t + \cos\,t}{\sin\,t\cos\,t}= \dfrac{35}{12}$
square both sides and put $\sin\,t\cos\,t= y$

to get $\dfrac{1+2y}{y^2} = \dfrac{1225}{144}$
add 1 on both sides to get
$\dfrac{1+2y+y^2}{y^2} = \dfrac{1369}{144}$
take square root of both sides knowing that y is positive

$\dfrac{1+y}{y} = \dfrac{37}{12}$
or $y = \dfrac{12}{25}$

$\sin\,t \cos\,t = \dfrac{12}{25}$

as $(\dfrac{3}{5})^2 + (\dfrac{4}{5})^2 = 1 $

and product is $\dfrac{12}{25}$

$\sin\,t = \dfrac{3}{5} \, \cos\,t =\dfrac{4}{5}$

or

$\cos \,t = \dfrac{3}{5} \, \sin\,t =\dfrac{4}{5}$hence
$a = \dfrac{5}{4}, b = - \dfrac{5}{4}$

or
$a = \dfrac{5}{3}, b = - \dfrac{5}{3}$
 
  • #3
kaliprasad said:
From the 2nd equation we have b < 0 say - c

So from 1 we get $(\sqrt{a^2+1}+a)(\sqrt{c^2+1}-c) = 1$
as we have $(\sqrt{a^2+1}+a)(\sqrt{a^2+1}-a) = 1$
so we get $\sqrt{a^2+1}-a= \sqrt{c^2+1}-c$
as $\sqrt{a^2+1}-a$ is monotonically decreasing we get $a =c$
hence $b = - a$
now from second putting $a=\sec\,t$

$\sec\,t + \sec\,t \,\cot\,t = \dfrac{35}{12}$

or $\dfrac{\sin\,t + \cos\,t}{\sin\,t\cos\,t}= \dfrac{35}{12}$
square both sides and put $\sin\,t\cos\,t= y$

to get $\dfrac{1+2y}{y^2} = \dfrac{1225}{144}$
add 1 on both sides to get
$\dfrac{1+2y+y^2}{y^2} = \dfrac{1369}{144}$
take square root of both sides knowing that y is positive

$\dfrac{1+y}{y} = \dfrac{37}{12}$
or $y = \dfrac{12}{25}$

$\sin\,t \cos\,t = \dfrac{12}{25}$

as $(\dfrac{3}{5})^2 + (\dfrac{4}{5})^2 = 1 $

and product is $\dfrac{12}{25}$

$\sin\,t = \dfrac{3}{5} \, \cos\,t =\dfrac{4}{5}$

or

$\cos \,t = \dfrac{3}{5} \, \sin\,t =\dfrac{4}{5}$hence
$a = \dfrac{5}{4}, b = - \dfrac{5}{4}$

or
$a = \dfrac{5}{3}, b = - \dfrac{5}{3}$

Very nicely done, kaliprasad!:cool:
 
  • #4
anemone said:
Very nicely done, kaliprasad!:cool:

Thanks, I would like to have a look at another different solution in case you have any
 
  • #5
kaliprasad said:
Thanks, I would like to have a look at another different solution in case you have any

Nope, my solution is more or less the same as yours, because the trick to solve this problem is to recognize that $a=-b$ and then we have to opt for the trigonometric substitution skill to solve for the rest.

Again, thanks so much for participating in my recent challenges at MHB, kali!
 

FAQ: Simultaneous Equations Challenge

What is the purpose of the Simultaneous Equations Challenge?

The purpose of the Simultaneous Equations Challenge is to test a person's ability to solve two or more equations with multiple variables at the same time. It helps to improve problem-solving skills and mathematical understanding.

How do you solve simultaneous equations?

To solve simultaneous equations, you can use various methods such as substitution, elimination, or graphing. These methods involve manipulating the equations to eliminate one of the variables, allowing you to solve for the remaining variables.

What are some common mistakes people make when solving simultaneous equations?

Some common mistakes people make when solving simultaneous equations include forgetting to distribute when using the elimination method, making careless errors in calculations, and not properly checking their solutions.

Is the Simultaneous Equations Challenge suitable for all levels of math proficiency?

Yes, the Simultaneous Equations Challenge can be suitable for all levels of math proficiency. It offers different levels of difficulty, allowing both beginners and advanced mathematicians to participate and improve their skills.

Can the Simultaneous Equations Challenge be applied in real-world situations?

Yes, the ability to solve simultaneous equations is useful in many real-world situations, such as in engineering, physics, economics, and finance. It allows for the analysis and prediction of complex systems with multiple variables.

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