If (ax + b)(bx + a) = 6x^2 + __ x + 6, where a, b and __ are distinct integers, what is the minumum possible value of __ , the coefficient of x?
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We know that \(ab = 6\), meaning the pairs of \((a,b)\) are (1,6), (2,3) (3,2), (6,1)
The coefficient of x will be \(b^2x + a^2x\)
Now, just try out the pairs, and find the least possible value.
We know that \(ab = 6\), meaning the pairs of \((a,b)\) are (1,6), (2,3) (3,2), (6,1)
The coefficient of x will be \(b^2x + a^2x\)
Now, just try out the pairs, and find the least possible value.