# Modern Algebra Problem

• September 3rd 2008, 02:36 PM
poXGxxi
Modern Algebra Problem
The Actual Problem:

a)
Use various lists of four (not necessarily distinct) integers, a,b,c,d to see how many different values can be obtained for various groupings of
a - b - c - d.
In particular, find a list with the fewest number of different values with all four integers distinct, a list with the fewest number of different values with not all distinct, and a list with the largest number of different values. Include an explanation for why you think you have found the minimums and maximums.

b) Use various lists of four (not necessarily distinct) integers, a,b,c,d to see how many different values can be obtained for various groupings of a÷b÷c÷d.
Find the same lists as above.

My Concerns:
I am having a notation problem. What is meant by the a - b - c - d and the a÷b÷c÷d in this problem? I think if I knew what this meant I could answer the problem. Thank you.
• September 3rd 2008, 04:19 PM
Jhevon
Quote:

Originally Posted by poXGxxi
The Actual Problem:

a)
Use various lists of four (not necessarily distinct) integers, a,b,c,d to see how many different values can be obtained for various groupings of
a - b - c - d.
In particular, find a list with the fewest number of different values with all four integers distinct, a list with the fewest number of different values with not all distinct, and a list with the largest number of different values. Include an explanation for why you think you have found the minimums and maximums.

b) Use various lists of four (not necessarily distinct) integers, a,b,c,d to see how many different values can be obtained for various groupings of a÷b÷c÷d.
Find the same lists as above.

My Concerns:
I am having a notation problem. What is meant by the a - b - c - d and the a÷b÷c÷d in this problem? I think if I knew what this meant I could answer the problem. Thank you.

i would think the "-" is refering to the arithmetical subtraction operation and the " $\div$" refers to the arithmetical division operation. do you have reason to believe otherwise? i would assume if you were to take them to mean something else, it would have been noted in your class or textbook prior to this assignment