Question

    A number exceeds 36 times its reciprocal by 1/2. Find the

    number.
    A 5 Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B 10 Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C 3 Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D 9 Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    ATQ,

    Let the number be x.

    x – 36/x = 1/2

    ⇒ (x² – 36)/x = 1/2

    Cross-multiplying:

    2x² – 72 = x

    ⇒ 2x² – x – 72 = 0

    Factorizing:

    2x² – 9x + 8x – 72 = 0

    2x(x – 9) + 8(x – 9) = 0

    (2x + 8)(x – 9) = 0

    So, x = –4 or x = 9

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