Solving for $\dfrac {a^{12}+7}{a^4}$ with $a^2-a-1=0$

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  • Thread starter Albert1
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In summary, solving for in an equation means finding the value of the variable or unknown quantity that satisfies the equation. The first step in solving this equation is to simplify the expression (a^12+7)/a^4, and then substitute the given equation for a^8 and a^-4. A calculator can be used to solve the equation, but understanding the manual steps is important for accuracy. There are multiple solutions to this equation, and solving equations is important in science to understand relationships and make predictions in various fields.
  • #1
Albert1
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$a\in R$ , and
$a^2-a-1=0$
find :
$\dfrac {a^{12}+7}{a^4}=?$
 
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  • #2
My solution:

$\begin{align*}\dfrac{a^{12}+7}{a^4}&=\dfrac{a^{12}+7(a^2-a)}{a^4}\text{since}\,\,(1=a^2-a)\\&=\dfrac{a^{12}+7a^2-7(a^4-2a^2)}{a^4}\text{since}\,\,\small a=a^2-1=(a+1)(a-1)=(a+1)(a+1-2)=a^2(a^2-2)=a^4-2a^2\\&=\dfrac{a^{12}-7a^4+21a^2}{a^4}\\&=\dfrac{a^{10}-7a^2+21}{a^2}\\&=\dfrac{a^{10}-7a^2+21(a^2-a)}{a^2}\text{again since}\,\,(1=a^2-a)\\&=\dfrac{a^{9}+14a-21}{a}\\&=\dfrac{a^{9}+14a-21(a^2-a)}{a}\\&=a^8-21a+35\\&=(21a+13)-21a+35\,\,\,\text{since $\small a^8=(a^4)^2=(3a+2)^2=9a^2+12a+4=9(a+1)+12a+4=21a+13$}\\&=48\end{align*}$
 
  • #3
$a^2=a+1$, hence $a^4=3a+2$, so we have$$\frac{(3a+2)^3+7}{3a+2}=\frac{27a^3+54a^2+36a+8+7}{3a+2}$$$$=\frac{27a^2+27a+54a^2+36a+15}{3a+2}=\frac{27a+27+27a+54a+54+36a+15}{3a+2}$$$$=\frac{144a+96}{3a+2}=\frac{48(3a+2)}{3a+2}=48$$$$\text{ }$$
 

FAQ: Solving for $\dfrac {a^{12}+7}{a^4}$ with $a^2-a-1=0$

What does "solving for" mean in this equation?

When we say "solving for" in an equation, it means finding the value of the variable or unknown quantity that satisfies the equation. In this case, we are looking for the value of a that makes the expression (a12+7)/a4 equal to the given equation a2-a-1=0.

How do I begin solving this equation?

The first step in solving this equation is to simplify the expression (a12+7)/a4 by dividing the numerator by the denominator. This will give us a8+7a-4. Then, we can substitute the given equation a2-a-1=0 for a8 and a-4 to get (a2-a-1)4+7(a2-a-1)-4.

Can I use a calculator to solve this equation?

Yes, you can use a calculator to solve this equation. However, it is important to understand the steps involved in solving the equation manually. This will not only help you understand the concept better, but it will also allow you to check the accuracy of your calculator's results.

Is there more than one solution to this equation?

Yes, there are multiple solutions to this equation. We can solve for a using various methods such as factoring, completing the square, or using the quadratic formula. Each method may yield different solutions, but they will all satisfy the given equation a2-a-1=0.

Why is solving equations important in science?

Solving equations is a fundamental aspect of science, as it helps us understand and describe the relationships between different variables and quantities. In fields such as physics and chemistry, equations are used to make predictions and solve real-world problems. In biology and other life sciences, equations are used to model and understand complex biological processes. In all areas of science, solving equations allows us to make sense of data and make informed decisions based on that data.

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