WAEC Further Mathematics 2010 Question 3

Question 3

Surds

If 5/√2 − √8/8 = m√2, where m is a constant find m.

  1. A.1½
  2. B.1¼
  3. C.2¼
  4. D.2½
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (2¼)

Explanation

5/√2 = (5/2)√2 and √8/8 = 2√2/8 = (1/4)√2. So m = 5/2 − 1/4 = 9/4 = 2¼.