JAMB Mathematics 1980 Question 3

Question 3

Fractions, Decimals and Approximation

Which of the following is NOT a factor of 124 − 54?

  1. A.7
  2. B.13
  3. C.17
  4. D.49
  5. E.169.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (49)

Explanation

12⁴ − 5⁴ = (144 + 25)(144 − 25) = 169 × 119 = 13² × 7 × 17. It contains only one 7, so 49 is not a factor.