Can You Solve This Unique Fraction Challenge?

  • MHB
  • Thread starter anemone
  • Start date
In summary, the "tricky fraction" in POTW #475 is 3/7, and the "mysterious relationship" refers to the relationship between its numerator and denominator. Evaluating this fraction is considered tricky because it does not have a simple decimal equivalent. To solve it without a calculator, one can use the long division method or convert it into a repeating decimal. The significance of this fraction and its relationship lies in its unique properties and connections to other mathematical concepts.
  • #1
anemone
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MHB
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Here is this week's POTW:

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Evaluate $\dfrac{a}{a+b}+\dfrac{b}{b+c}+\dfrac{c}{c+a}$, given that $\dfrac{(a-b)(b-c)(c-a)}{(a+b)(b+c)(c+a)}=\dfrac{1}{11}$.

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  • #2
Congratulations to the following members for their correct solution! (Cool)
1. maxkor
2. DaalChawal

Solution from DaalChawal:
We have
$a \over a+b$ + $b \over b+c$ +$c \over c+a$

= $1 \over 2$ $[3 + \sum\limits_{cyc} \frac{(a-b)}{(a+b)} ]$

= $\frac{1}{2}$ $[3 - \prod\limits_{cyc} \frac{(a-b)}{(a+b)}]$

= $\frac{1}{2} [3 - \frac{1}{11}]$

= $\frac{16}{11}$
 

Related to Can You Solve This Unique Fraction Challenge?

1. What is the purpose of POTW #475?

The purpose of POTW #475 is to challenge students to think critically and creatively about fractions and their relationships, as well as practice problem-solving skills.

2. What is the mysterious relationship in this problem?

The mysterious relationship in this problem is the connection between the numerator and denominator of the fraction, which is not explicitly stated but can be deduced through careful analysis of the given information.

3. What strategies can be used to solve this tricky fraction problem?

Some strategies that can be used to solve this tricky fraction problem include simplifying the fraction, finding common factors, and using visual aids or manipulatives to better understand the relationship between the numerator and denominator.

4. How can this problem be related to real-world situations?

This problem can be related to real-world situations by considering fractions in terms of parts of a whole or parts of a group. For example, the fraction 3/4 can represent 3 out of 4 slices of pizza or 3 out of 4 students in a class.

5. What skills can be developed by solving this problem?

Solving this problem can help develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving skills, and mathematical reasoning. It can also improve understanding of fractions and their relationships, as well as the ability to apply mathematical concepts to real-world situations.

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