WAEC Further Mathematics 2017 Question 16

Question 16

Polynomials

α and β are the roots of the equation 2x2 − 3x + 4 = 0. Find (α/β + β/α).

  1. A.−9/8
  2. B.−7/8
  3. C.7/8
  4. D.9/8
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (−7/8)

Explanation

αβ = 2. α/β + β/α = ((α + β)² − 2αβ)/αβ = (9/4 − 4)/2 = −7/8.