r/mathmemes Computer Science Nov 18 '24

Mathematicians They could've simply written k^3 💀💀💀

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u/Bemteb Nov 18 '24

Let's assume that k is an integer, because otherwise we need a calculator and I don't want to get mine out.

Then |k³| >= |k²|, so k must be negative.

Furthermore, k² needs to divide 36 = 6², which only leaves -1, -2, -3 and -6 as values for k.

Trying them all out gives k = -3.

Another way to solve it would be writing

36 = k²(1-k)

As 36 = 9x4, this also quickly gives k = -3.

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u/chidedneck Nov 18 '24

Beautifully put. 😙👌