JAMB Mathematics 1998 Question 12

Question 12

Surds

Solve the equation √x − √(x − 2) − 1 = 0

  1. A.3/2
  2. B.2/3
  3. C.4/9
  4. D.9/4
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (9/4)

Explanation

√x = 1 + √(x − 2). Squaring: x = 1 + 2√(x − 2) + x − 2, so √(x − 2) = 1/2, x − 2 = 1/4 and x = 9/4.