Solving equations with greatest integer function

In summary, the conversation discusses solving equations involving the greatest integer function. The solution involves finding the value of 2x+1 and determining its range based on the given equation. The conversation concludes with confirmation that the solution is correct.
  • #1
Bea77
3
0

Homework Statement


I can't find a step by step explanation for solving these types of equations

eg.
99 = [2x+1]/3


Homework Equations



eg.
99 = [2x+1]/3

or

48 = 4[2x/3]

How do you handle the multipliers iand constants inside the brackets?
thx
3. The Attempt at a Solution
 
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  • #2
Think about how the greatest integer function works. For example,

[tex]
\lfloor 3.2 \rfloor = \lfloor 3.582 \rfloor = 3
[/tex]

and in fact, if [tex] 3 \le x < 4 [/tex] it is true that

[tex]
\lfloor x \rfloor = 3
[/tex]

So, if you know that

[tex]
\frac{\lfloor 2x+1\rfloor}{3} = 99
[/tex]

you also know that

[tex]
\lfloor 2x+1 \rfloor = 297
[/tex]

(the [tex] 3 [/tex] in the denominator is not in the function). What does the final
statement above tell you about how large [tex] 2x + 1 [/tex] must be?
 
  • #3
statdad said:
Think about how the greatest integer function works. For example,

[tex]
\lfloor 3.2 \rfloor = \lfloor 3.582 \rfloor = 3
[/tex]

and in fact, if [tex] 3 \le x < 4 [/tex] it is true that

[tex]
\lfloor x \rfloor = 3
[/tex]

So, if you know that

[tex]
\frac{\lfloor 2x+1\rfloor}{3} = 99
[/tex]

you also know that

[tex]
\lfloor 2x+1 \rfloor = 297
[/tex]

(the [tex] 3 [/tex] in the denominator is not in the function). What does the final
statement above tell you about how large [tex] 2x + 1 [/tex] must be?

--------------------
so 297 <= 2x+1 < 298

296 <=2x and 2x < 297
148 <=x and x < 148.5

Did I get it?
 
  • #4
Yup.
 
  • #5
statdad said:
Yup.


Thanks!
 

FAQ: Solving equations with greatest integer function

What is the greatest integer function?

The greatest integer function, also known as the floor function, is a mathematical function that rounds down a given number to the nearest integer. It is represented by the symbol ⌊x⌋ or sometimes by [x]. For example, ⌊3.7⌋ = 3 and ⌊-2.5⌋ = -3.

How do you solve equations with the greatest integer function?

To solve equations with the greatest integer function, you must first isolate the greatest integer function on one side of the equation. Then, you can solve for the variable by removing the greatest integer function by undoing its operation. For example, if the equation is ⌊3x + 5⌋ = 10, you would first subtract 5 from both sides to get ⌊3x⌋ = 5. Then, you would divide both sides by 3 to get x = ⌊5/3⌋ = 1.

Can the greatest integer function have non-integer values?

No, the greatest integer function will always output an integer value. This is because the function rounds down to the nearest integer, regardless of the input value. For example, ⌊4.2⌋ = 4 and ⌊-1.8⌋ = -2.

What are some real-world applications of the greatest integer function?

The greatest integer function can be used in a variety of real-world applications, such as calculating the number of items that can fit in a certain space or determining the number of people needed to complete a task. It can also be used in computer programming to round down to the nearest integer for various calculations and functions.

Are there any other functions similar to the greatest integer function?

Yes, there are other functions that are similar to the greatest integer function, such as the ceiling function and the round function. The ceiling function rounds up to the nearest integer, while the round function rounds to the nearest integer based on normal rounding rules (i.e. rounding up if the decimal is 5 or greater). However, the greatest integer function is unique in that it always rounds down to the nearest integer.

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