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WAEC Mathematics 2026 Question 49

Question 49

Quadratic Equations

The expression x2 + 10x + 18 can be written as (x + p)2 + q, where p and q are integers. Find the values of p and q

  1. A.5 and −9
  2. B.5 and 4
  3. C.5 and −7
  4. D.5 and 3
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (5 and −7)

Explanation

(x + 5)² = x² + 10x + 25, so x² + 10x + 18 = (x + 5)² − 7: p = 5, q = −7.