If \frac{a^2}{b^2 + c^2} = \frac{b^2}{c^2 + a^2} = \frac{c^2}{a^2 + b^2}, then what is the value of a^4 + b^4 + c^4 equal to ?

  1. A. a^2b^2 + b^2c^2 + c^2a^2
  2. B. 2(a^2b^2 + b^2c^2 + c^2a^2)
  3. C. 3(a^2b^2 + b^2c^2 + c^2a^2)
  4. D. 4(a^2b^2 + b^2c^2 + c^2a^2)

Correct Answer: A. a^2b^2 + b^2c^2 + c^2a^2

Explanation

By symmetry, setting a=b=c=1 satisfies the given equation (ratios equal 1/2). Substituting these values into a^4+b^4+c^4 yields 3. Only option (a) equals 3 when evaluated with a=b=c=1.

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