JAMB Mathematics 1990 Question 19

Question 19

Algebraic Expressions

If x + 1/x = 4, find x2 + 1/x2

  1. A.16
  2. B.14
  3. C.12
  4. D.9
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (14)

Explanation

Square x + 1/x = 4: x2 + 2 + 1/x2 = 16, so x2 + 1/x2 = 14.