Answers>Maths>IB>Article

Find the constant term in the binomial expansion of (3x + 2/(x^2))^33

Recall that the general term in the binomial expansion of (x+y)^n is (nCr)(x^n-r)(y^r), so by the binomial theorem, the entire expansion is the sum of these terms from r = 0 to n. In this case, n = 33, the first term in the binomial expression is 3x and the second term is 2/(x^2). Substituting these, we obtain the general term for our expansion as (33Cr)(3x)^33-r(2/x^2)^r. We can re-write this as ( x^33-3r)(2^r)(3^33-r)(33Cr) by separating x from its coefficient. Since the question asks for the constant term (i.e. the term independent of x or x^0), we require 33-3r = 0, which is achieved when r = 11. Therefore, we can substitute r = 11 into the expression for the coefficient to obtain the constant term as equal to (33 C 11)(3^22)(2^11).

EG
Answered by Elias G. Maths tutor

8307 Views

See similar Maths IB tutors

Related Maths IB answers

All answers ▸

When the polynomial 3x^3 +ax+ b is divided by x−2 , the remainder is 2, and when divided by x +1 , it is 5. Find the value of a and the value of b.


f(x)=(2x+1)^0.5 for x >-0.5. Find f(12) and f'(12)


A team of four is chosen from six married couples. If a husband and wife cannot both be on the team, in how many ways can the team be formed?


When do you use 'n choose k' and where does the formula come from?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning