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JAMB Mathematics 1986 Question 11

Question 11

Quadratic Equations

The ages of Tosan and Isa differ by 6 and the product of their ages is 187. Write their ages in the form (x,y), where x > y.

  1. A.(12,6)
  2. B.(23, 17)
  3. C.(17, 11)
  4. D.(18, 12)
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C ((17, 11))

Explanation

x = y + 6 and y(y + 6) = 187, so y² + 6y − 187 = 0 = (y + 17)(y − 11). Ages are positive, so y = 11 and x = 17.