Question:medium

The solution of the equation \( y^{\frac{2}{3}} - 2y^{\frac{1}{3}} = 15 \) is:

Show Hint

When solving equations with fractional exponents, first substitute a variable for the fractional power, solve the quadratic equation, and then substitute back.
Updated On: Jan 15, 2026
  • 25, 27
  • 27, -125
  • 25, -27
  • 125, -27
Show Solution

The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Let \( z = y^{\frac{1}{3}} \). Then \( z^2 = y^{\frac{2}{3}} \), and the equation is: \[\nz^2 - 2z = 15\n\] Rearranging: \[\nz^2 - 2z - 15 = 0\n\] Factoring: \[\n(z - 5)(z + 3) = 0\n\] Thus, \( z = 5 \) or \( z = -3 \). Since \( z = y^{\frac{1}{3}} \): \[\ny^{\frac{1}{3}} = 5 \quad \Rightarrow \quad y = 25\n\] \[\ny^{\frac{1}{3}} = -3 \quad \Rightarrow \quad y = -27\n\] Therefore, the solutions are \( y = 25 \) and \( y = -27 \).
Was this answer helpful?
0