JAMB Mathematics 1993 Question 10

Question 10

Surds

If √(x2 + 9) = x + 1, solve for x.

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

Answer: B (4)

Explanation

Square both sides: x² + 9 = x² + 2x + 1, so 2x = 8 and x = 4 (check: √25 = 5 = 4 + 1).