For any real number x and positive integer k, define the notation [x,k] by the recursion [x,k+1]=(x-k)[x,k] and [x,1]=x. If n is any positive integer, one can now express the monomial x^n as a polynomial in [x,1],[x,2],...,[x,n]. Find a general formula that accomplishes this, and prove that your formula is correct.

Presley Esparza

Presley Esparza

Answered question

2022-09-06

For any real number x and positive integer k, define the notation [x,k] by the recursion [ x , k + 1 ] = ( x k ) [ x , k ] and [ x , 1 ] = x.
If n is any positive integer, one can now express the monomial x n as a polynomial in [ x , 1 ] , [ x , 2 ] , . . . , [ x , n ]. Find a general formula that accomplishes this, and prove that your formula is correct.

Answer & Explanation

Sharon Dawson

Sharon Dawson

Beginner2022-09-07Added 20 answers

Step 1
Your term [x, k] is just the falling factorial of k steps ( x ) k = x ( x 1 ) ( x k + 1 ). This is just given by the Stirling numbers of the second kind in the generating function
x n = k = 1 n { n k } ( x ) k
In particular, your formula for x 3 and x 4 seem to be off by a bit.
Step 2
The Stirling numbers of the second kind themselves are characterized by the recursion
{ n + 1 k } = k { n k } + { n k 1 }
with the initial values
{ 0 0 } = 1 ,         { n 0 } = { 0 k } = 0

Do you have a similar question?

Recalculate according to your conditions!

New Questions in Discrete math

Ask your question.
Get an expert answer.

Let our experts help you. Answer in as fast as 15 minutes.

Didn't find what you were looking for?