The positive integer n, for which the solutions of the equation x(x + 2) + (x + 2)(x + 4) + + (x + 2n - 2)(x + 2n) = 8n3 are two consecutive even integers, is :
- 3
- 6
- 9
- 12
Answer
(1) 3
Solution
General term: (x + 2k - 2)(x + 2k) = x2 + (4k - 2)x + 4k2 - 4k, k = 1, 2, , n
Sum = nx2 + x [2n(n + 1) - 2n ] + 4 n(n + 1)(2n + 1)6 - 4 n(n + 1)2
= nx2 + 2n2 x + 4n(n2 - 1)3
nx2 + 2n2 x + 4n(n2 - 1)3 = 8n3
x2 + 2nx + 4n2 - 123 = 0
Roots differ by 2: ( - )2 = ( + )2 - 4 = 4
4n2 - 4(4n2 - 12)3 = 4
3n2 - 4n2 + 12 = 3 ⇒ n2 = 9 ⇒ n = 3
Check: x2 + 6x + 8 = 0 ⇒ x = -2, -4 (consecutive even integers)
Answer: (1)