Math Problem Statement

Find the values of a and b that make the second expression equivalent to the first. Assume that x > 0 and y ≈ 0.

Solution

The problem asks to find the values of aa and bb such that the second expression is equivalent to the first.

The two expressions given are:

[ \sqrt[3]{\frac{128xy^5}{32x}} \quad \text{and} \quad \sqrt[3]{\frac{63y^5}{ax^b}} ]

Step-by-step Solution:

  1. Simplify the first expression: 128xy532x=12832xy5x=4y5\frac{128xy^5}{32x} = \frac{128}{32} \cdot \frac{xy^5}{x} = 4y^5 So the first expression becomes: 4y53\sqrt[3]{4y^5}

  2. The second expression is already given as: 63y5axb3\sqrt[3]{\frac{63y^5}{ax^b}}

  3. For the expressions to be equivalent, we compare the simplified first expression with the second: [ \sqrt[3]{4y^5} = \sqrt[3]{\frac{63y^5}{ax^b}} ]

  4. The y5y^5 terms are already identical on both sides, so the remaining terms must be equal: 4=63axb4 = \frac{63}{ax^b}

  5. From this, solve for aa and bb: axb=634=15.75ax^b = \frac{63}{4} = 15.75

    Since there is no xx term on the left-hand side (the expression for 4y54y^5), we know b=0b = 0.

  6. Finally, solve for aa: a=15.75a = 15.75

Thus, the values of aa and bb are: a=15.75andb=0a = 15.75 \quad \text{and} \quad b = 0

If you have any questions or would like more details, feel free to ask!

Here are 5 related questions you can try:

  1. What happens if the variable xx were not simplified in the first expression?
  2. How would the solution change if the exponents on yy were different?
  3. Can you generalize this method for other similar expressions involving roots?
  4. How can the cube root be manipulated if different numbers were used in the numerator or denominator?
  5. What role does the assumption x>0x > 0 and y0y \approx 0 play in the solution?

Tip: Always check if variables can be simplified before equating two expressions—it can save a lot of calculation!

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Simplification
Exponent Rules
Cube Roots

Formulas

Cube root: \(\sqrt[3]{a} \)
Fraction simplification: \( \frac{128xy^5}{32x} \)
Equating two expressions: \( \frac{63y^5}{ax^b} = 4y^5 \)

Theorems

Simplification theorem
Exponent rules

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12