WAEC Mathematics 2014 Theory — Question 5

Question 5 of 23 from the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) Mathematics 2014 Theory paper, with the correct answer and a full explanation.

3(a). Solve the simultaneous equations: 1/x + 1/y = 5, 1/y − 1/x = 1.

Model answer

Let a=1/x, b=1/y. a+b=5 ...(i) b−a=1 ...(ii) Adding (i) and (ii): 2b=6, b=3 From (i): a=5−3=2 So 1/x=2 ⟹ x=1/2 And 1/y=3 ⟹ y=1/3

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