Question 1

Given 3x + 2y = 12 and xy = 6 in basic algebra, compute the exact value of 9x^2 + 4y^2. Use identities rather than solving for x and y explicitly.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This problem checks fluency with algebraic identities that allow direct evaluation of expressions without first solving for the individual variables. Recognizing the pattern behind (3x + 2y)^2 helps collapse the computation quickly and accurately. Given Data / Assumptions: 3x + 2y = 12 xy = 6 We must find 9x^2 + 4y^2, which equals (3x)^2 + (2y)^2. Concept / Approach: Use the expansion (A + B)^2 = A^2 + B^2 + 2AB with A = 3x and B = 2y. Then (3x + 2y)^2 = 9x^2 + 4y^2 + 12xy. Since both (3x + 2y) and xy are known, we can isolate 9x^2 + 4y^2 directly. Step-by-Step Solution: Compute (3x + 2y)^2 = 12^2 = 144.From identity: (3x + 2y)^2 = 9x^2 + 4y^2 + 12xy.Hence 9x^2 + 4y^2 = 144 − 12xy.Substitute xy = 6: 9x^2 + 4y^2 = 144 − 12*6 = 144 − 72 = 72. Verification / Alternative check: If desired, solve for one variable and check numerically. For instance, set y = (12 − 3x)/2, substitute into xy = 6, solve, and confirm that 9x^2 + 4y^2 evaluates to 72 for both roots. The identity method is faster and avoids quadratic arithmetic. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 80, 76, 74, 68: These come from arithmetic slips such as squaring 12 incorrectly, forgetting the 12xy term, or using 2xy instead of 12xy. Common Pitfalls: Expanding (3x + 2y)^2 but omitting the middle term; trying to solve for x and y first, which is unnecessary overhead and error-prone. Final Answer: 72

Question 2

If x + 1/x = 3 (x ≠ 0), determine the exact value of x^5 + 1/x^5 using power-sum recurrences.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: When a relation like x + 1/x = k is given, higher symmetric power sums (x^n + 1/x^n) can be built efficiently via a recurrence. This avoids tedious expansion and keeps arithmetic clean and reliable. Given Data / Assumptions: x + 1/x = 3 with x ≠ 0. We need x^5 + 1/x^5. Concept / Approach: Use the standard recurrence S_n = (x + 1/x) * S_{n−1} − S_{n−2}, where S_n = x^n + 1/x^n, S_0 = 2, and S_1 = x + 1/x. This recurrence is derived from multiplying by x + 1/x and regrouping terms. Step-by-Step Solution: S_0 = 2, S_1 = 3.S_2 = 3*S_1 − S_0 = 3*3 − 2 = 7.S_3 = 3*S_2 − S_1 = 3*7 − 3 = 18.S_4 = 3*S_3 − S_2 = 3*18 − 7 = 47.S_5 = 3*S_4 − S_3 = 3*47 − 18 = 141 − 18 = 123. Verification / Alternative check: One can also compute x^2 + 1/x^2 = 9 − 2 = 7, then use (x + 1/x)(x^4 + 1/x^4) − (x^3 + 1/x^3) patterns to reach the same number, confirming the recurrence path. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 112, 102, 92, 83: These typically result from a single missed subtraction by S_{n−2} at one step in the recurrence. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting S_0 = 2; using S_n = (x + 1/x)*S_{n−1} only (without subtracting S_{n−2}). Final Answer: 123

Question 3

If x + 1/x = 2 (with x ≠ 0), compute the value of x − 1/x. Justify your reasoning clearly.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This is a quick identity-based question. When x + 1/x equals a particular constant, it often pins down x uniquely (for reals), enabling immediate evaluation of related expressions like x − 1/x without heavy algebra. Given Data / Assumptions: x + 1/x = 2. x ≠ 0. Concept / Approach: Observe that among real numbers, x + 1/x ≥ 2 with equality if and only if x = 1 (by AM ≥ GM or by completing the square). Thus x must be 1. Then compute x − 1/x directly. Alternatively, square x − 1/x and use the identity (x − 1/x)^2 = (x + 1/x)^2 − 4 to reach the same result. Step-by-Step Solution: Since x + 1/x = 2, for real x we get x = 1.Hence x − 1/x = 1 − 1 = 0.Identity check: (x − 1/x)^2 = (2)^2 − 4 = 0 ⇒ x − 1/x = 0. Verification / Alternative check: Plug x = 1 back into x + 1/x to verify it equals 2; then x − 1/x clearly vanishes. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 1, 2, −2, −1: These disregard the equality case of the AM ≥ GM condition or misuse the identity for (x − 1/x)^2. Common Pitfalls: Assuming multiple real solutions; forgetting that the minimum value of x + 1/x for real x is 2 at x = 1. Final Answer: 0

Question 4

If x + 1/x = 6 (x ≠ 0), evaluate x^4 + 1/x^4 efficiently using power-sum identities.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Many olympiad-style and aptitude questions rely on the chain of identities connecting x + 1/x to higher-power symmetric sums. Mastering these shortcuts saves time and prevents arithmetic mishaps. Given Data / Assumptions: x + 1/x = 6, x ≠ 0. Goal: compute x^4 + 1/x^4. Concept / Approach: First find x^2 + 1/x^2 from (x + 1/x)^2 − 2. Then use the identity (x^2 + 1/x^2)^2 = x^4 + 1/x^4 + 2 to reach the target without expanding powers directly. Step-by-Step Solution: x^2 + 1/x^2 = (x + 1/x)^2 − 2 = 6^2 − 2 = 36 − 2 = 34.Then x^4 + 1/x^4 = (x^2 + 1/x^2)^2 − 2 = 34^2 − 2 = 1156 − 2 = 1154. Verification / Alternative check: Using the recurrence S_n = (x + 1/x)S_{n−1} − S_{n−2}, with S_1 = 6 and S_2 = 34, gives S_4 = 6*(6*34 − 6) − 34 = 6*(204 − 6) − 34 = 6*198 − 34 = 1188 − 34 = 1154, confirming the result. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 1152, 1150, 1148, 1138: Each is close, typically caused by forgetting to subtract 2 in the final step or squaring errors. Common Pitfalls: Expanding x^4 directly; dropping the constant 2 when applying (x^2 + 1/x^2)^2 = x^4 + 1/x^4 + 2. Final Answer: 1154

Question 5

If x + y = 18 and xy = 72 for real numbers x and y, determine x^2 + y^2 using the standard sum-of-squares identity.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Instead of solving a quadratic to find x and y individually, the identity linking the square of the sum to the sum of squares makes it trivial to compute x^2 + y^2 directly from x + y and xy. This is a common, time-saving technique in aptitude tests. Given Data / Assumptions: x + y = 18 xy = 72 Find x^2 + y^2. Concept / Approach: Use (x + y)^2 = x^2 + y^2 + 2xy. Rearranging gives x^2 + y^2 = (x + y)^2 − 2xy. Plug in the known values and compute. Step-by-Step Solution: Compute (x + y)^2 = 18^2 = 324.Apply identity: x^2 + y^2 = 324 − 2*72 = 324 − 144 = 180. Verification / Alternative check: Optionally, solve the quadratic t^2 − 18t + 72 = 0 to get t = 12 and 6; then x^2 + y^2 = 12^2 + 6^2 = 144 + 36 = 180, verifying the identity method. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 120, 90, 144: These come from misapplying the identity or errors with the factor 2 in 2xy. “Cannot be determined”: Incorrect because the identity gives a unique value without needing the individual numbers. Common Pitfalls: Mixing up (x + y)^2 with x^2 + y^2; forgetting to multiply xy by 2. Final Answer: 180

Question 6

If x + y = 1, find the exact value of x^3 + y^3 + 3xy. Use the cube-of-sum identity to simplify.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Recognizing the pattern within the cube-of-sum identity allows you to simplify expressions that mix cubes and products. This is a classic manipulation in algebra-based aptitude questions. Given Data / Assumptions: x + y = 1. Evaluate x^3 + y^3 + 3xy. Concept / Approach: Recall the identity (x + y)^3 = x^3 + y^3 + 3xy(x + y). Rearranging isolates x^3 + y^3. After computing that part, add 3xy as requested, noticing cancellation. Step-by-Step Solution: From identity: x^3 + y^3 = (x + y)^3 − 3xy(x + y).With x + y = 1, we have x^3 + y^3 = 1^3 − 3xy*1 = 1 − 3xy.Therefore x^3 + y^3 + 3xy = (1 − 3xy) + 3xy = 1. Verification / Alternative check: Pick values summing to 1 (e.g., x = 0.4, y = 0.6). Compute x^3 + y^3 + 3xy numerically to see it equals 1, independent of the split. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 3, 2, 0, −2: These ignore the cancellation of −3xy with +3xy or mistake the identity. Common Pitfalls: Using x^3 + y^3 = (x + y)^3 directly without subtracting 3xy(x + y); forgetting that x + y = 1 simplifies the expression drastically. Final Answer: 1

Question 7

Let p + q = 10 and pq = 5 for non-zero p and q. Evaluate the expression p/q + q/p without finding p and q separately.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Expressions like p/q + q/p simplify neatly when rewritten in symmetric form. Using the relationship between (p + q)^2 and p^2 + q^2 lets us compute the result directly from the given sum and product. Given Data / Assumptions: p + q = 10 pq = 5 We need p/q + q/p. Concept / Approach: Rewrite p/q + q/p as (p^2 + q^2)/(pq). Then use the identity (p + q)^2 = p^2 + q^2 + 2pq to find p^2 + q^2. Divide by pq to reach the final value without solving a quadratic. Step-by-Step Solution: p^2 + q^2 = (p + q)^2 − 2pq = 10^2 − 2*5 = 100 − 10 = 90.Therefore p/q + q/p = (p^2 + q^2)/(pq) = 90 / 5 = 18. Verification / Alternative check: Optionally, solve t^2 − 10t + 5 = 0 to find p and q, then evaluate p/q + q/p numerically to confirm 18. The identity path is far quicker. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 22, 20, 16, 14: These reflect mistakes in forming p^2 + q^2 or dividing by pq. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting the 2pq term; directly computing p/q and q/p individually, which is unnecessary and error-prone. Final Answer: 18

Question 8

Simplify the identity: [ (m − n)^3 + (n − r)^3 + (r − m)^3 ] ÷ [ 6 (m − n)(n − r)(r − m) ]. Evaluate the constant value independent of m, n, r.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This expression is a textbook application of the identity a^3 + b^3 + c^3 − 3abc = (a + b + c)(a^2 + b^2 + c^2 − ab − bc − ca). A clever choice of a, b, c makes the sum vanish, drastically simplifying the fraction to a constant. Given Data / Assumptions: a = m − n, b = n − r, c = r − m. We must compute [a^3 + b^3 + c^3] / [6abc] with these substitutions. Concept / Approach: Note that a + b + c = (m − n) + (n − r) + (r − m) = 0. Plugging into the cubic identity yields a^3 + b^3 + c^3 − 3abc = 0 * ( … ) = 0, hence a^3 + b^3 + c^3 = 3abc. Substitute back into the ratio and simplify to a constant independent of m, n, r. Step-by-Step Solution: Compute a + b + c = 0.From identity: a^3 + b^3 + c^3 − 3abc = (a + b + c)(… ) = 0 ⇒ a^3 + b^3 + c^3 = 3abc.Therefore the required value = (3abc) / (6abc) = 1/2. Verification / Alternative check: Pick simple numbers, e.g., m = 2, n = 1, r = 0 ⇒ a = 1, b = 1, c = −2. Then numerator 1 + 1 + (−8) = −6; denominator 6*(1*1*(−2)) = −12; ratio = (−6)/(−12) = 1/2, confirming the identity. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 1/3, 1/6, 1/5, 2/3: These come from forgetting the factor 3 in a^3 + b^3 + c^3 = 3abc or miscomputing the denominator. Common Pitfalls: Applying the identity but not checking that a + b + c = 0; sign mistakes in (r − m). Final Answer: 1/2

Question 9

Evaluate the telescoping product (1 − 1/2)(1 − 1/3)(1 − 1/4)…(1 − 1/m) for an integer m ≥ 2. Express the result in simplest terms.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Products constructed as (1 − 1/k) from k = 2 to m are engineered to telescope when written as fractions with consecutive numerators and denominators. Recognizing this pattern allows a one-line simplification. Given Data / Assumptions: Product: ∏ from k = 2 to m of (1 − 1/k), where m ≥ 2. All factors are positive fractions between 0 and 1. Concept / Approach: Rewrite each term as (k − 1)/k. The product then becomes (1/2) * (2/3) * (3/4) * … * ((m − 1)/m). Consecutive numerator–denominator pairs cancel across the chain, leaving only the first numerator and the last denominator. Step-by-Step Solution: (1 − 1/2)(1 − 1/3)…(1 − 1/m) = (1/2)(2/3)…((m − 1)/m).Telescoping cancellation: all intermediate numbers 2, 3, …, m − 1 cancel.Remaining fraction = 1/m. Verification / Alternative check: Try small m: for m = 4, product = (1/2)(2/3)(3/4) = 1/4 = 1/m, confirming the general result. Why Other Options Are Wrong: m, m + 1: These ignore that each factor is less than 1; the product cannot exceed 1. 1/(m − 1), 1/(m + 1): Common slips from stopping the telescoping one term too early or late. Common Pitfalls: Failing to convert to (k − 1)/k; arithmetic errors in partial products that obscure the telescoping structure. Final Answer: 1/m

Question 10

If a + 1/a = √3 (a ≠ 0), evaluate the expression a^6 − 1/a^6 + 2 exactly, using symmetry and angle-based reasoning.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This problem highlights the power of treating expressions of the form a + 1/a as “trigonometric-like.” When a + 1/a equals a constant close to 2, it often corresponds to 2*cos(θ). That perspective can make high powers surprisingly simple due to periodicity of angles. Given Data / Assumptions: a + 1/a = √3, with a ≠ 0 (complex values allowed). Compute a^6 − 1/a^6 + 2. Concept / Approach: Set a + 1/a = 2*cos(θ). Here √3 = 2*cos(θ) ⇒ cos(θ) = √3/2 ⇒ θ = 30 degrees. Then a can be represented (up to choice of sign in the quadratic roots) as e^{iθ}. Powers like a^6 then map to e^{i6θ}, which is easy to evaluate. Finally compute the target difference and add 2. Step-by-Step Solution: a + 1/a = √3 ⇒ a satisfies a^2 − √3 a + 1 = 0 with roots e^{±iπ/6}.Hence a = e^{iπ/6} (or e^{−iπ/6}).Compute a^6 = e^{iπ} = −1, and 1/a^6 = e^{−iπ} = −1.Therefore a^6 − 1/a^6 = (−1) − (−1) = 0.Finally, a^6 − 1/a^6 + 2 = 0 + 2 = 2. Verification / Alternative check: Algebraic route: Let S1 = a + 1/a = √3. Then S2 = S1^2 − 2 = 1, S3 = S1*S2 − S1 = 0. Using the pattern for differences: a^6 − 1/a^6 = (a^3 − 1/a^3)(a^3 + 1/a^3) = (a^3 − 1/a^3)*0 = 0, leading again to +2 overall. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 3√3, 5, 1, 0: These typically arise from confusing sums and differences of powers or assuming a^6 = 1 instead of −1. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting that √3 = 2*cos(30°); mixing up a^6 + 1/a^6 with a^6 − 1/a^6; sign mistakes when interpreting e^{±iπ}. Final Answer: 2

Question 11

Evaluate the telescoping product by writing each factor as a ratio: (1 + 1/2) * (1 + 1/3) * (1 + 1/4) * ... * (1 + 1/150) = ?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests the technique of telescoping products in number theory and arithmetic simplification. By expressing each factor (1 + 1/n) as a simple fraction, most intermediate terms cancel, leaving only the first denominator and the last numerator. Recognizing this pattern saves time and avoids cumbersome multiplication. Given Data / Assumptions: Product is (1 + 1/2)(1 + 1/3)(1 + 1/4)...(1 + 1/150). All factors are positive rational numbers. We can rearrange factors and simplify exactly (no rounding). Concept / Approach: Write 1 + 1/n as (n + 1)/n. Then the entire product becomes a chain of fractions whose adjacent terms cancel (telescope). Only the first denominator and the last numerator remain after cancellation. Step-by-Step Solution: For each n from 2 to 150: 1 + 1/n = (n + 1)/n.Product = (3/2) * (4/3) * (5/4) * ... * (151/150).All interior numerators/denominators cancel, leaving 151/2.151/2 = 75.5. Verification / Alternative check: Compute a smaller sample, e.g., (1 + 1/2)(1 + 1/3)(1 + 1/4) = (3/2)(4/3)(5/4) = 5/2; the same cancellation pattern holds, confirming the approach. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 50.5, 65.5, 105, and 151 arise from partial telescoping or forgetting to divide by 2 at the end. Only 75.5 equals 151/2. Common Pitfalls: Not converting to (n + 1)/n, multiplying straight across, or truncating the sequence boundaries incorrectly (starting at n = 1 would break the pattern). Final Answer: 75.5

Question 12

Linked reciprocal relations: If a + 1/b = 1 and b + 1/c = 1 (with a, b, c non-zero), then find the exact value of c + 1/a.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This algebra problem involves chained relations among a, b, and c that include reciprocals. The goal is to compute c + 1/a without solving for all variables explicitly. Such problems reward comfort with transforming equations and handling compound fractions. Given Data / Assumptions: a + 1/b = 1 and b + 1/c = 1. a, b, c ≠ 0 so that all reciprocals are defined. We seek c + 1/a. Concept / Approach: First isolate a and b in terms of b and c. Then substitute to express 1/a in terms of c alone. A compact cancellation will appear, making the final evaluation immediate. Step-by-Step Solution: From a + 1/b = 1 ⇒ a = 1 − 1/b = (b − 1)/b ⇒ 1/a = b/(b − 1).From b + 1/c = 1 ⇒ b = 1 − 1/c = (c − 1)/c.Compute b − 1 = (c − 1)/c − 1 = (c − 1 − c)/c = −1/c.Thus 1/a = b/(b − 1) = ((c − 1)/c) / (−1/c) = −(c − 1).Finally, c + 1/a = c − (c − 1) = 1. Verification / Alternative check: Pick any convenient c ≠ 0, 1 (e.g., c = 2). Then b = (2 − 1)/2 = 1/2, a = 1 − 1/b = 1 − 2 = −1, hence 1/a = −1, and c + 1/a = 2 − 1 = 1. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The larger integers (3, 4, 24) and 0 ignore the exact cancellation found after substitution; only 1 satisfies the identity for all permitted c. Common Pitfalls: Dropping the negative sign when computing b − 1, or inverting a compound fraction incorrectly while finding 1/a. Final Answer: 1

Question 13

Given a^2 + 1/a^2 = 17/4, determine the exact value of a^3 − 1/a^3. Assume real a for principal values.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This problem explores classic symmetric identities with a and 1/a. Starting from a^2 + 1/a^2, you can recover both a + 1/a and a − 1/a and then compute higher-order expressions such as a^3 − 1/a^3 using factorization formulas. Given Data / Assumptions: a^2 + 1/a^2 = 17/4. a is real and non-zero (so reciprocals exist). We want a^3 − 1/a^3. Concept / Approach: Use (a ± 1/a)^2 relations: a^2 + 1/a^2 = (a + 1/a)^2 − 2 = (a − 1/a)^2 + 2. Then use a^3 − 1/a^3 = (a − 1/a)(a^2 + 1/a^2 + 1). Choose the principal positive root for a − 1/a to obtain the standard positive value. Step-by-Step Solution: (a + 1/a)^2 = 17/4 + 2 = 25/4 ⇒ a + 1/a = ±5/2.(a − 1/a)^2 = 17/4 − 2 = 9/4 ⇒ a − 1/a = ±3/2.Compute a^3 − 1/a^3 = (a − 1/a)(a^2 + 1/a^2 + 1) = (±3/2)(17/4 + 1) = (±3/2)(21/4) = ±63/8.Taking the principal positive value gives 63/8. Verification / Alternative check: If a − 1/a is taken negative, the magnitude remains 63/8 but the sign flips. Most exam conventions assume the positive branch unless specified otherwise. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 75/16 and 95/8 come from misusing the identities or adding 1 incorrectly. “None of these” is incorrect because 63/8 is attainable directly. Common Pitfalls: Confusing a^3 − 1/a^3 with a^3 + 1/a^3, and misapplying the ± when taking square roots. Always plug back to confirm. Final Answer: 63/8

Question 14

Compute the exact value of the fractional operation: (5/8) * (23/5) ÷ (4/9) = ?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks precision with multiplying and dividing rational numbers. The fastest path is to convert the entire expression to a product by multiplying with the reciprocal of the divisor, then cancel common factors. Given Data / Assumptions: Expression: (5/8) * (23/5) ÷ (4/9). All values are exact rational numbers. No rounding; simplify by cancellation when possible. Concept / Approach: Division by a fraction equals multiplication by its reciprocal. Cancel shared factors before multiplying across to avoid large intermediate numbers. Step-by-Step Solution: Rewrite division: (5/8) * (23/5) * (9/4).Cancel 5 in (5/8) with the 5 in (23/5), yielding (23/8) * (9/4).Multiply numerators: 23 * 9 = 207.Multiply denominators: 8 * 4 = 32.Result = 207/32 (already in lowest terms). Verification / Alternative check: As a decimal: 207/32 = 6.46875. Computing each step numerically also gives 6.46875, confirming the fraction. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 9/4 and 27/8 reflect partial multiplication errors; 23/32 comes from inverting the wrong factor; 13/10 is unrelated. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting to flip the last fraction, canceling across addition (not allowed), or prematurely rounding decimals. Keep everything fractional until the end. Final Answer: 207/32

Question 15

Express decimal powers with a common base: Evaluate (0.49)^4 * (0.343)^4 ÷ (0.2401)^4 and write the result as (70/100)^k. Find k.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Recognizing prime-power structure in decimals allows fast simplification. Here, 0.49, 0.343, and 0.2401 are powers of 7 divided by matching powers of 10. The expression reduces neatly to a single power of 7/10. Given Data / Assumptions: Compute E = (0.49)^4 * (0.343)^4 ÷ (0.2401)^4. Express E as (70/100)^k = (7/10)^k and determine k. Concept / Approach: Rewrite each decimal: 0.49 = 7^2/10^2, 0.343 = 7^3/10^3, 0.2401 = 7^4/10^4. Apply exponent rules to combine and subtract powers when dividing. Step-by-Step Solution: (0.49)^4 = (7^2/10^2)^4 = 7^8/10^8.(0.343)^4 = (7^3/10^3)^4 = 7^12/10^12.(0.2401)^4 = (7^4/10^4)^4 = 7^16/10^16.E = (7^(8+12)/10^(8+12)) / (7^16/10^16) = 7^(20−16)/10^(20−16) = (7/10)^4.Therefore k = 4. Verification / Alternative check: Since 0.7^4 = 0.2401, the conclusion that E = (0.7)^4 is consistent with the given numbers. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 1, 2, 3, and 7 do not match the net exponent after combining powers; only 4 preserves the equality. Common Pitfalls: Adding instead of subtracting exponents during division, or misidentifying the decimal-to-fraction conversions. Final Answer: 4

Question 16

Apply the sum-of-cubes identity with decimals: Evaluate [(2.247)^3 + (1.730)^3 + (1.023)^3 − 3*2.247*1.730*1.023] / [(2.247)^2 + (1.730)^2 + (1.023)^2 − (2.247*1.730) − (1.730*1.023) − (2.247*1.023)].

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The expression matches the well-known identity a^3 + b^3 + c^3 − 3abc = (a + b + c)(a^2 + b^2 + c^2 − ab − bc − ca). When the numerator and denominator are arranged in this exact pattern, the quotient simplifies dramatically to a + b + c, provided a + b + c ≠ 0. Given Data / Assumptions: a = 2.247, b = 1.730, c = 1.023. Structure exactly matches the identity above. All arithmetic is exact (no rounding needed to reach the conclusion). Concept / Approach: Recognize the factorization and cancel the common factor (a^2 + b^2 + c^2 − ab − bc − ca) from numerator and denominator, leaving just a + b + c. Step-by-Step Solution: Use identity: (a^3 + b^3 + c^3 − 3abc) / (a^2 + b^2 + c^2 − ab − bc − ca) = a + b + c.Compute sum: a + b + c = 2.247 + 1.730 + 1.023 = 5.000.Hence the value of the whole expression is 5. Verification / Alternative check: Expanding the right-hand side (a + b + c)(a^2 + b^2 + c^2 − ab − bc − ca) reproduces the numerator, confirming the identity holds regardless of decimal values. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 1.730 and 5.247 are partial sums; 4 is a rounded guess; 3 ignores the identity. Only 5 equals a + b + c. Common Pitfalls: Not spotting the identity and attempting long decimal expansions or mishandling negative signs in the −ab − bc − ca terms. Final Answer: 5

Question 17

Use the sum-of-cubes factorization: Compute [(8.73)^3 + (4.27)^3] / [(8.73)^2 − (8.73)(4.27) + (4.27)^2].

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This is a direct application of the identity a^3 + b^3 = (a + b)(a^2 − ab + b^2). Since the denominator equals a^2 − ab + b^2, the quotient collapses to a + b. No heavy computation is required beyond adding the two bases. Given Data / Assumptions: a = 8.73, b = 4.27. We compute (a^3 + b^3) / (a^2 − ab + b^2). Assume exact arithmetic (identity holds for all real a, b). Concept / Approach: Recognize the pattern and reduce: (a^3 + b^3)/(a^2 − ab + b^2) = a + b. Step-by-Step Solution: Apply identity directly to get a + b.Compute a + b = 8.73 + 4.27 = 13.00.Therefore, the exact value is 13. Verification / Alternative check: Multiplying (a + b)(a^2 − ab + b^2) re-expands to a^3 + b^3, confirming the simplification. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 11 and 12 are near-sum guesses; 11/7 is unrelated; “None of these” is invalid because 13 is correct by identity. Common Pitfalls: Attempting to cube decimals directly (time-consuming) instead of using the identity; misreading the denominator as a^2 + ab + b^2 (that is for a^3 − b^3). Final Answer: 13

Question 18

Given x = (√2 + 1)/(√2 − 1) and x − y = 4√2, determine the exact value of x^2 + y^2.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This problem combines rationalizing a radical fraction and manipulating sums/differences of two variables. The key is to simplify x first, then exploit the given difference x − y to identify y and compute x^2 + y^2 efficiently. Given Data / Assumptions: x = (√2 + 1)/(√2 − 1). x − y = 4√2. All square roots are principal (non-negative) values. Concept / Approach: Rationalize x by multiplying numerator and denominator by the conjugate (√2 + 1). Then, given the numerical value of x, use x − y = 4√2 to obtain y. Finally, compute x^2 + y^2 by squaring and adding; conjugate-like structures will cancel mixed terms. Step-by-Step Solution: x = (√2 + 1)/(√2 − 1) * (√2 + 1)/(√2 + 1) = (√2 + 1)^2 / (2 − 1) = (2 + 2√2 + 1) / 1 = 3 + 2√2.Given x − y = 4√2, solve for y: y = x − 4√2 = (3 + 2√2) − 4√2 = 3 − 2√2.Compute x^2 = (3 + 2√2)^2 = 17 + 12√2; y^2 = (3 − 2√2)^2 = 17 − 12√2.Sum: x^2 + y^2 = (17 + 12√2) + (17 − 12√2) = 34. Verification / Alternative check: Observe that y = 3 − 2√2 satisfies x − y = 4√2 directly; the conjugate structure guarantees mixed terms cancel when squaring and adding. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 38, 32, 30, and 28 are typical miscomputations from squaring or handling radicals improperly; only 34 is consistent. Common Pitfalls: Not rationalizing correctly, or attempting to compute y via a guess without ensuring the exact difference equals 4√2. Final Answer: 34

Question 19

Evaluate the telescoping series by partial fractions: 1/(1*4) + 1/(4*7) + 1/(7*10) + 1/(10*13) + 1/(13*16) = ?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This series uses a fixed step in the denominator, suggesting partial fractions of the form 1/(n(n + 3)) = (1/3)(1/n − 1/(n + 3)). Such decompositions create telescoping sums in which most intermediate terms cancel cleanly. Given Data / Assumptions: Terms: n = 1, 4, 7, 10, 13 with step 3. Series: Σ 1/[n(n + 3)] over these five n. Exact arithmetic; reduce fractions to simplest form. Concept / Approach: Decompose each term: 1/(n(n + 3)) = (1/3)(1/n − 1/(n + 3)). Summing these creates successive cancellations, leaving only the first 1/n and the very last −1/(n + 3). Step-by-Step Solution: 1/(1·4) = (1/3)(1 − 1/4).1/(4·7) = (1/3)(1/4 − 1/7); 1/(7·10) = (1/3)(1/7 − 1/10).1/(10·13) = (1/3)(1/10 − 1/13); 1/(13·16) = (1/3)(1/13 − 1/16).Sum = (1/3)[1 − 1/16] = (1/3)(15/16) = 15/48 = 5/16. Verification / Alternative check: Compute numerically and compare: 0.25 + 0.035714... + 0.014285... + 0.007692... + 0.004807... ≈ 0.3125 = 5/16. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 3/16 and 7/16 result from off-by-one cancellations; 11/16 is far too large; 1/3 ignores the finite truncation at 1/16. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting the 1/3 factor in the decomposition or misaligning the start/end indices, which ruins cancellation. Final Answer: 5/16

Question 20

Given x + a/x = 1 (with x ≠ 0), evaluate the expression (x^2 + x + a) / (x^3 − x^2) in simplest terms.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Algebraic constraints like x + a/x = 1 are powerful: when multiplied through, they produce a quadratic relation connecting x and a. This relation can simplify more complicated rational expressions by substitution and cancellation. Given Data / Assumptions: x + a/x = 1, with x ≠ 0. Target: S = (x^2 + x + a) / (x^3 − x^2). All work is exact; simplify fully. Concept / Approach: From x + a/x = 1, multiply both sides by x to get a polynomial constraint x^2 − x + a = 0. Use this to replace a wherever it appears. Then factor common terms and cancel responsibly to obtain a compact result in terms of a alone. Step-by-Step Solution: From x + a/x = 1 ⇒ x^2 + a = x ⇒ x^2 − x + a = 0 ⇒ a = −x^2 + x.Compute numerator: x^2 + x + a = x^2 + x + (−x^2 + x) = 2x.Compute denominator: x^3 − x^2 = x^2(x − 1).Hence S = (2x) / (x^2(x − 1)) = 2 / (x(x − 1)).From a = x(1 − x) ⇒ x(x − 1) = −a ⇒ S = 2 / (−a) = −2/a. Verification / Alternative check: Pick a feasible pair satisfying x^2 − x + a = 0 (e.g., choose x, compute a), then evaluate S numerically and compare with −2/a; they match. Why Other Options Are Wrong: −2 and −a/2 treat a as if equal to x(x − 1) without inversion; 2/a misses the negative sign; 2/(1 − a) is unrelated to the derived identity. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting to multiply the initial constraint by x, canceling x terms incorrectly, or losing the negative when substituting x(x − 1) = −a. Final Answer: -2/a

Simplification Questions