Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: 0
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
We simplify a sum of logarithms involving symmetric rational expressions in a, b, and c. The task is purely algebraic, requiring log combination rules.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Use log A + log B + log C = log(ABC). Multiply the three rational expressions and simplify the resulting fraction by collecting powers of a, b, c in numerator and denominator.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
By exponent rules: exponents of a, b, and c in the product are 2 − 1 − 1 = 0 each, confirming that every variable cancels and the product is 1.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
1 would equal log(10) in base 10, not log(1); abc or ab2c2 are not constants and do not reflect the cancellation evident above.
Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to add exponents in the denominator or mishandling cancellations can obscure that the product equals 1 and the log is 0.
Final Answer:
0
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