Evaluate the identity-based expression exactly: [0.5*0.5*0.5 + 0.2*0.2*0.2 + 0.3*0.3*0.3 − 3*0.5*0.3*0.2] / [0.5*0.5 + 0.2*0.2 + 0.3*0.3 − 0.5*0.2 − 0.2*0.3 − 0.5*0.3].

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: 1

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This expression is a classic application of the identity (a^3 + b^3 + c^3 − 3abc) = (a + b + c)(a^2 + b^2 + c^2 − ab − bc − ca). Recognizing this structure turns a messy-looking fraction into a simple sum a + b + c.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • a = 0.5, b = 0.2, c = 0.3.
  • Numerator matches a^3 + b^3 + c^3 − 3abc.
  • Denominator matches a^2 + b^2 + c^2 − ab − bc − ca.


Concept / Approach:
Use the identity directly. Provided a + b + c ≠ 0, the ratio simplifies exactly to a + b + c. Compute that sum with the given decimal values.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify the pattern: Numerator = a^3 + b^3 + c^3 − 3abc.Denominator = a^2 + b^2 + c^2 − ab − bc − ca.Therefore, fraction = (a + b + c).Compute a + b + c = 0.5 + 0.2 + 0.3 = 1.0.


Verification / Alternative check:
Plugging numbers explicitly gives the same result; however, the identity provides a faster and exact path with less arithmetic risk.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
0.6, 0.4, 0.03, and 0.5 are arbitrary decimals not equal to a + b + c for the given values.



Common Pitfalls:
Failing to spot the identity leads to tedious computations and rounding errors. Another frequent error is misplacing minus signs in the denominator terms −ab − bc − ca.



Final Answer:
1

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