JAMB Mathematics 1991 Question 2

Question 2

Number Bases

If 2257 is the result of subtracting 4577 from 7056 in base n find n

  1. A.8
  2. B.9
  3. C.10
  4. D.11
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (8)

Explanation

The digit 7 rules out bases below 8. In base 8, 7056 = 3630 and 4577 = 2431 in base ten; 3630 − 2431 = 1199, and 2257 in base 8 is also 1199. So n = 8.