JAMB Mathematics 1991 Question 25

Question 25

Algebraic Expressions

Evaluate x2(x2 − 1)−½ − (x2 − 1)½

  1. A.(x2 − 1)½
  2. B.(x2 − 1)
  3. C.(x2 − 1)−1
  4. D.(x2 − 1)−½
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D ((x2 − 1)−½)

Explanation

Write both terms over (x2 − 1)½: [x2 − (x2 − 1)]/(x2 − 1)½ = 1/(x2 − 1)½ = (x2 − 1)−½.