Evaluate: log(a^2 / (b c)) + log(b^2 / (a c)) + log(c^2 / (a b)). Simplify to a single constant value.

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:

  • Expression: log(a^2/(bc)) + log(b^2/(ac)) + log(c^2/(ab))
  • a, b, c > 0 (so logs are defined).


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:

Product inside one log: (a^2/(bc))·(b^2/(ac))·(c^2/(ab))Numerator: a^2 b^2 c^2Denominator: (b c)(a c)(a b) = a^2 b^2 c^2Therefore the product equals 1Hence the sum equals log(1) = 0


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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