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WAEC Mathematics 2021 Theory — Question 17

Question 17 of 22 from the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) Mathematics 2021 Theory paper, with the correct answer and a full explanation.

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10(b). A ladder 10 m long leaned against a vertical wall x m high. The distance between the wall and the foot of the ladder is 2 m longer than the height of the wall. Calculate the value of x.

Model answer

By Pythagoras: x²+(x+2)²=10². 2x²+4x-96=0 → x²+2x-48=0 → (x-6)(x+8)=0. Since x>0, x = 6 m.

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