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Let a and b be complex numbers. If a + b = 4 and a^2 + b^2 = 6 + ab, then what is a^3 + b^3?

 Aug 28, 2024
 #1
avatar+1926 
+1

We can use a series of equations to solve this problem. 

 

First, let's focus on what we are trying to compute, a^3+b^3. 

Now, note that

\(a^3 + b^3 = (a + b) ( a^2 + b^2 - ab)\)

 

Wait! We already have all the terms needed to solve this problem. We have

\(a^3+b^3=4(6+ab - ab) = 4(6) = 24\)

 

Thus, our answer is just 24. 

 

Thanks! :)

 Aug 28, 2024
edited by NotThatSmart  Aug 28, 2024

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