WAEC Mathematics 1998 Question 10

Question 10

Algebraic Expressions

For what values of x is the expression (x − 5)/(x2 − 2x − 3) not defined?

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

Answer: C (−1, 3)

Explanation

A fraction is undefined when its denominator is 0: x2 − 2x − 3 = (x − 3)(x + 1) = 0 gives x = 3 or −1.