JAMB Mathematics 1985 Question 18

Question 18

Indices

If 32y − 6(3y) = 27, find y

  1. A.3
  2. B.−1
  3. C.2
  4. D.−3
  5. E.1.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (2)

Explanation

Put u = 3ʸ: u² − 6u − 27 = 0, so (u − 9)(u + 3) = 0. 3ʸ cannot be negative, so 3ʸ = 9 and y = 2.