1 Chapter 1 | Fundamentals of Mathematics

Chapter
Quadratic Equations
2
LECTURE-1 SOLVING POLYNOMIAL EQUATIONS

Introduction Step-1 Factorise the constant term of the

A quadratic equation in the variable x is an equation of given quadratic equation.
the form ax2 + bx + c = 0, where a, b, care real Step-2 Express the coefficient of middle term
numbers, a  0. as the sum or difference of the factors
e.g., 2x2 – 3x + 1 = 0, 4x – 3x2 = 0, 1 – x2 = 0 etc. obtained in step 1. Clearly, the product of
When we write the terms of a quadratic equation in these two factors will be equal to the product
descending order of their degrees, then we get the of the coefficient of x2 and constant term.
standard form of the equation. i.e. ax2 + bx + c = 0, Step-3 Split the middle term in two parts
where a, b, c are real numbers and a  0 is called the obtained in step 2.
standard form of a quadratic equation. Step-4 Factorise the quadratic equation
A quadratic equation can be of the following types : obtained in step 3.
(i) b = 0, c  0 i.e. of the type ax2 + c = 0
(ii) b  0, c = 0 i.e. of the type ax2 + bx = 0 (ii) By Completing the Square Method
(iii) b = 0, c = 0 i.e. of the type ax2 = 0 ALGORITHM
(iv) b  0, c  0 i.e. of the type ax2 + bx + c = 0 Step-1 Obtain the quadratic equation. Let the
quadratic equation be ax2 + bx + c = 0, a  0.
Step-2 Make the coefficient of x2 unity, if it is
Methods of Solving b c
not unity. i.e., obtain x 2 + x + = 0.
(a) Roots of a Quadratic Equation a a
c
A real number  is a root of quadratic equation ax2 Step-3 Shift the constant term on R.H.S. to
a
b c
+ bx + c = 0, a  0 ifa2 + b + c = 0. So any real 2
get x + x = −
a a
number which satisfies a given quadratic equation Step-4 Add square of half of the coefficient of
is called the root of the quadratic equation. b 2
In polynomial chapter, we learnt that if x =  x. i.e. ( ) on both sides to obtain
2a
satisfies a quadratic polynomial p(x) i.e., p() = 0, b b 2 b 2 c
x2 + 2 ( ) x + ( ) = ( ) −
then  is the zero of p(x). 2a 2a 2a a

This means that zeros of a quadratic polynomial Step-5 Write L.H.S. as the perfect square of a
ax2 + bx + c and roots of a quadratic equation ax2 binomial expression and simplify R.H.S. to get
b 2 b2 −4ac
+ bx + c = 0 are the same. A quadratic equation (x + 2a) = 4a2 .
can have almost two real roots. Step-6 Take square root of both sides to get
b b2 −4ac
x+ = ±√ .
Note 2a 4a2
1. A quadratic equation is satisfied by exactly two Step-7 Obtain the values of x by shifting the
values of 'x' which may be real or imaginary. b
constant term on RHS.
The equation, ax2 + bx + c = 0 is 2a
(iii) By Using Quadratic Formula
2. A quadratic equation if a  0. [Two roots]
Consider the quadratic equation : ax2 + bx +
3. A linear equation if a = 0, b  0. [One root]
c = 0. a  0
4. A contradiction if a = b = 0, c  0. [No root]
Dividing throughout by a, we get
5. An identity if a = b = c = 0. [Infinite roots] b c b c
6. A quadratic equation cannot have more than x2 + x + = 0 ⇒ x2 + x = −
a a a a
two roots. 2 b b 2 b 2 c
⇒ x + 2( )x + ( ) = ( ) −
7. It follows from the above statement that if a 2a 2a 2a a
b 2 b2 −4ac
quadratic equation is satisfied by more than ⇒ (x + ) =
2a 4a2
two values of x, then it is satisfied by every √b2 −4ac
b
value of x and so it is an identity. ⇒x+ =± , when b2 – 4ac  0
2a 2a
b √b2 −4ac −b±√b2 −4ac
⇒x=− ± ⇒x=
2a 2a 2a
(b) Methods of Solving Quadratic Equation This is known as Quadratic formula or
(i) By Factorization Method Shreedharacharay’s formula for finding the
ALGORITHM roots of a quadratic equation.
 Chapter 1 | Fundamentals of Mathematics 2
Hence, if – 4ac  0, then the root of the
b2 1
Solution : Putting x = 5 and x = in the given equation.
2
quadratic equation ax2 + bx + c are given by 2 5 2 5
−b+√b2 −4ac −b−√b2 −4ac
− + 2 and 1 2
− 1 +2
(5)2 5 (2) (2)
and
2a 2a 2 2 5
Discriminant : For the quadratic equation ax2  − 1 + 2 and 1 − 1 +2
25
4 2
+ bx + c = 0, the expression D = (b2 – 4ac) is 2 27
called its discriminant. In terms of  +1 and 8 – 10 + 2  and 0
25 25
1
discriminant D, the two roots are given by i.e. x = 5 does not satisfy but x = satisfies the given
2
−b−√D −b−√D
α= and β = equation.
2a 2a 1
Hence, x = 5 is not a solution but x = is a solution of
Remark : If the discriminate D = b2 – 4ac < 0, then the 2 5
2

quadratic equation ax2 + bx + c = 0 has no real roots. 𝑥 2 − + 2 = 0.

𝑥

Example 1.1 Example 1.4

Which of the following are quadratic equations ? Find the value of K for which the given value is a
(i) x2 – 6√x + 2 = 0 solution of the equation.
1 (i) x2 + Kx + 3 = 0, x = 1
(ii) x + = 1
x (ii) x2 – x(a + b) + K = 0, x = a
Solution : (i) x2 – 6√x + 2 = 0 is not a quadratic Solution : (i) Since x = 1 is a solution of the equation
equation as x2 – 6√x + 2 is not a quadratic polynomial x2 + Kx + 3 = 0
( the power of x is 1/2)  (1)2 + K × 1 + 3 = 0
1  1+K+3=0
(ii) x + = 1
x  K = – 4.
x2 +1
⇒ =1 (ii) Since x = a is a solution of equation
x
 x2 + 1 = x x2 – x(a + b) + K = 0
 x2 – x + 1 = 0  (a)2 – a(a + b) + K = 0
 (x2 – x + 1) is a quadratic polynomial  a2 – a2 – ab + K = 0
 (x2 – x + 1) = 0 is a quadratic equation.  – ab + K = 0
 K = ab.
Example 1.2
Example 1.5
Determine whether the given values are solution of 2
the given equation or not. If x = and x = – 3 are the roots of the equation ax2 +
3
1
(i) 3x2 + 2x – 1 = 0; x = 7x + b = 0, find the value of a and b.
3 2
(ii) a2x2 – 3abx + 2b2 = 0; x = , x =
a b Solution : Since x = is a root of the equation
3
b a
Solution : (i) 3x2 + 2x – 1 = 0 ax2 + 7x + b = 0
1 2 2 2
Putting x = in the LHS of the given equation, we get ∴ a( ) + 7 × + b = 0
3 3 3
1 2 1  4a + 9b = – 42 ... (i)
LHS = 3x2 + 2x – 1 = 3 × ( ) + 2 × − 1
3 3 Again, x = – 3 is a root of the equation ax2 + 7x + b = 0
1 2 1 2 1+2−3
=3× + −1= + −1=
9 3 3 3 3
= 0 = RHS  a(–3)2 + 7(–3) + b = 0
1
 x = is a solution of + 2x – 1 = 0. 3x2  9a – 21 + b = 0
3
 9a + b = 21 ... (ii)
(ii) a x – 3abx + 2b = 0
2 2 2
On solving (i) & (ii) a = 3, b = – 6
We have a2x2 – 3abx + 2b2 = 0
a
Putting x = in the LHS of the given equation.
b
a2 a a4
Example 1.6
LHS = a2 × 2 − 3ab × + 2b2 = 2 − 3a2 + 2b2 
b b b Solve the following quadratic equation by
RHS factorization method :
b
Putting x = in the LHS of the given equation x2 – 2ax + a2 – b2 = 0
a
b2 b Solution : Factors of the constant term a2 – b2 are (a
LHS = a2 × 2 − 3ab × + 2b2 = b2 – 3b2 + 2b2 = – b) & (a + b). Also, coefficient of the middle term
a a
0 = RHS = – 2a = {(a – b) + (a + b)}.
a b
hence x = is not the solution, but x = is a  x2 – 2ax + a2 – b2 = 0
b a
solution of the given equation.  x2 – {(a –b) + (a + b)} x + (a + b) (a – b) = 0
 x2 – (a – b) x – (a + b) x + (a – b) (a + b) = 0
Example 1.3  x{x– (a – b)} – (a + b) {x – (a – b)} = 0
 {x – (a – b)} {x– (a + b)} = 0
Determine whether the given values are the solutions x – (a – b) = 0 or x – (a + b) = 0
of the given equation or not : x = a – b or x = a + b
2 5 1
𝑥2 − + 2 = 0; x = 5 x = –
𝑥 2
OR
3 Chapter 1 | Fundamentals of Mathematics
(x2 – 2ax + a2) – b2 = 0
 (x – a)2 – (b)2 = 0 Example 1.12
 (x – a + b) (x – a – b) = 0
By using the method of completing the square, show
 x – (a – b) = 0 or x – (a – b) = 0
that the equation 4x2 + 3x + 5 = 0 has no real roots.
 x = a – b or a + b
Solution : We have, 4x2 + 3x + 5 = 0 ...(i)
divide (i) by 4 we get
Example 1.7 3
 x2 + x = −
5
4 4
Find the solutions of the quadratic equation x2 + 6x + add square of half of the coefficient of x on both sides
5 = 0. 3 3 2 3 2 5
Solution : The quadratic polynomial x2 + 6x + 5 can be  x2 + x + ( ) = ( ) −
4 8 8 4
factorized as follows 3 2 9 5
 (x + ) = −
x2 + 6x + 5 8 64 4
3 2 71
= x2 + 5x + x + 5  (x + ) = −
8 64
= x(x + 5) + 1(x + 5) Clearly, RHS is negative.
= (x + 5)(x + 1) 3 2
Therefore the given quadratic equation becomes (x + But, (x + ) cannot be negative for any real value of x.
8
5)(x + 1) = 0 Hence, the given equation has no real roots.
This gives x = – 5 or x = –1.
Therefore, x = – 1, – 5 are the required solutions of the Example 1.13
given equation.
Solve : 9x2 – 15x + 6 = 0
Solution : Here, 9x2 – 15x + 6 = 0
Example 1.8 15 6
 x 2 − x + = 0 (Dividing throughout by 9)
Solve : 25x2 – 30x + 9 = 0 9 9
5 2
Solution : 25x2 – 30x + 9 = 0  x2 − x + = 0
3 3
(5x)2 – 2(5x) × 3 + (3)2 = 0 5 2
 x2 − x = −
3 3
(5x – 3)2 = 0
3 3 3 (Shifting the constant term on RHS)
This gives x = , or simply x = as the required 5 −5 2 −5 2 2
5 5 5
 x2 − 2 ( ) x + ( ) = ( ) −
solution. 6 6 6 3
(Adding square of half of coefficient of x on both sides)
5 2 25 2
Example 1.9  (x − ) = −
6 36 3
Solve 64x2 – 625 = 0 5 2 25−24
 (x − ) =
6 36
Solution : We have 64x2 – 625 = 0
5 2 1
or (8x)2 – (25)2 = 0  (x − ) =
6 36
or (8x + 25)(8x – 25) = 0 5 1
 x− =± [Taking square root of both sides]
i.e., 8x + 25 = 0 or 8x – 25 = 0. 6
5 1
6
25
This gives x = − or .
25  x= ±
8 8 6 6
5 1 5 1 4 2
Thus, x = −
25 25
, are solutions of the given equation.  x = + =1 or x = − = =
6 6 6 6 6 3
8 8

Example 1.10 Example 1.14

Solve the quadratic equation : 16x2 – 24x = 0. Solve the quadratic equation x2 – 6x + 4 = 0 by using
Solution : The given equation may be written as 8x(2x quadratic formula (Sridharacharya's Rule).
– 3) = 0 Solution : Solve the quadratic equation x2 – 6x + 4 = 0
3 by using quadratic formula (Sridharacharya's Rule).
This gives x = 0 or x = .
3
2 On comparing the given equation x2 – 6x + 4 = 0 with
x = 0, are the required solutions. the standard form of quadratic equation ax2 + bx + c
2
= 0, we get a = 1, b = – 6, c = 4.
Hence the required roots are
Example 1.11
−(−6) ± √(−6)2 − 4(1)(4) 6 ± √36 − 16
Solve: x2 + 6x + 8 = 0 x= =
2(1) 2
Solution : We have
x2 + 6x + 8 = 0 6 ± √20 6 ± √4 × 5
= =
x2 + 6x = – 8 2 2
2(3±√5)
add square of half of the coefficient of x on both sides = = 3 ± √5
2
x2 + 6x + (3)2 = – 8 + (3)2
Thus, the roots of the equation are 3 + √5and 3 – √5.
(x + 3)2 = – 8 + 9
(x + 3)2 = 1
x+3=1 Example 1.15
x + 3 = 1 or x + 3 = – 1 Solve the quadratic equation x2 – 7x – 5 = 0.
 x = – 2 or – 4 are the solutions.
 Chapter 1 | Fundamentals of Mathematics 4
Solution : Comparing the given equation with + bx ax2 Example 1.18
+ c = 0, a = 1, b = –7 and c = –5.
Therefore, D = (–7)2 – 4 × 1 × (–5) = 49 + 20 = 69 > 0
Find the value of √2 + √2 + √2+. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..
Since D is positive, the equation has two roots given by
−b+√D −b−√D 7+√69 7−√69 Solution : Let
x= , = ,
2a 2a 2 2
⇒x=
7+√69 7−√69
, are the required solutions. x = √2 + √2 + √2+. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ∞
2 2
x = √2 + x
by squaring on both sides
Example 1.16
 x2 = 2 + x
Solve the quadratic equation 9x2 – 9(a + b)x + 2a2 +  x2 – x – 2 = 0  (x – 2) (x + 1) = 0
5ab + 2b2 = 0 .  x = –1, 2.
Solution : 9x2 – 9 (a + b) x + 2a2 + 5ab + 2b2 = 0
compare the given equation Ax2 + Bx + C = 0
Example 1.19
A=9
B = –9 (a + b) Solve for x : 2x4 + x3 – 6x2 + x + 2 = 0
C = 2a2 + 5ab + 2b2 Solution : 2x4 + x3 – 6x2 + x + 2 = 0
−±√𝐵2 −4𝐴𝐶 divide the equation by x2, we get
x= 1 1
2𝐴 2 (x 2 + 2) + (x + ) − 6 = 0 ...(i)
9(𝑎+𝑏)±√92 (𝑎 + 𝑏)2 −4×9(2 𝑎2 +5 𝑎𝑏 +2 𝑏2 ) x x
x= 1
x + = y then x 2 +
1
= y 2 − 2put these values in (i)
18
x x2
9(a+b)±√81 a2 +81 b2 +162ab−72 a2 −72 b2 −180ab
x=  2(y2 – 2) + y – 6 = 0
18
9(a+b)±√9 a2 +9 b2 −18ab
 2y2 – 4 + y – 6 = 0
x=  2y2 + y – 10 = 0
18

x=
9(a+b)±√9(a − b)2  2y2 + 5y – 4y – 10 = 0
18
9(a+b)±3(a − b)
 y(2y + 5) – 2(2y + 5) = 0
x=
18  (y – 2) (2y + 5) = 0
5
Taking positive value  y = 2, −
9a+9b+3 a −3b 2a+b 2
x= = 1
x+ 0y=2 or x + = y =
1 −5
18 3
x x 2
Taking negative value x2 +1 −5
2a+b a+2b  x2 – 2x + 1 = 0 =
x= , . x 2
3 3  (x – 1)2 = 0
 x = 1,1  2x2 + 2 + 5x = 0
Example 1.17  (x +2) (2x + 1) = 0
1
 x = – 2, − .
2
Solve for x : 9x + 2 – 6 × 3x + 1 + 1 = 0
Solution : We have 9x + 2 – 6 × 3x + 1 + 1 = 0
 9x.92 – 6.3x.3 + 1 = 0
Example 1.20
1
 81(3x)2 – 18 × 3x + 1 = 0 ... (i) Find the value of 2 + 1 .
2+
Let 3x = y, then equation (i) becomes 2+......∞
1
 81 y2 – 18y + 1 = 0 Solution : Let x = 2 +
2+
1

 81y2 – 9y – 9y + 1 = 0
2+......∞
1
 x = 2 +  x2 – 2x – 1 = 0
 9y(9y – 1) – 1(9y – 1) = 0 x
−(−2)±√(−2)2 −4(1)(−1)
 (9y – 1) (9y – 1) = 0  by quadratic formula x =
1 1 2(1)
 y = or y = ... (ii) 2±√8
9 9 =
Putting y = 3x in (ii), we get 2
1
3x = = 3–2  x = 1 +√2, 1 – √2
9
1 – √2 is neglected
x = – 2 and – 2.
so, x = 1 + √2.

WORKED-OUT PROBLEMS - 1

𝟐
1. The number of roots of the equation 𝒙 − =
(𝒙 −𝟏) 𝟏 𝟏
𝟐 3. Solve for 𝒙: 𝟐 (𝒙𝟐 + ) − 𝟗 (𝒙 + 𝒙) + 𝟏𝟒 = 𝟎.
𝟏− is : 𝒙𝟐
(𝒙 −𝟏) 𝟏 𝟏 𝟏 𝟏
(A) , 1, 2 (B) , 1, –2 (C) , 1, 4 (D) , 1, –4
(A) 0 (B) 1 (C) 2 (D) infinite 𝟐 𝟐 𝟐 𝟐

2. The set of all real values of p for which the equation 4. The roots of equation x2 + px + q = 0 are 1 and 2.
x + 1 = √𝒑𝒙 has exactly one root, is : The roots of the equation qx2 – px + 1 = 0 must be
(A) {0} (B) {4} (C) {0, 4} (D) {0, 2} :
5 Chapter 1 | Fundamentals of Mathematics
𝟏 𝟏 𝟏 𝟏
(A) –1, − (B) , 1 (C) − , 1 (D) – 1,
𝟐 𝟐 𝟐 𝟐
12. Solve for x : √2𝑥 + 9+ x = 13
5. If the roots of the equation px2 + qx + r = 0 are in (A) 4, 16 (B) 8 (C) 2 (D) 8, 20
the ratio : m then :
13. Solve for x : √2𝑥 + 9 − √𝑥 − 4 = 3
(A) ( + m)2 pq =  mr2 (A) 4, 16 (B) 8, 20
(B) ( + m)2 pr =  mq (C) 2, 8 (D) None of these

(C) ( + m)2 pr =  mq2 1 1

14. Solve for x : 2 [𝑥 2 + ] − 9 [𝑥 + ] + 14= 0
𝑥2 𝑥
(D) None of these 1 1
(A) ,1, 2 (B) 2, 4,
2 3
1
6. If 2 – √𝟑 is a root of the quadratic equation x2 + (C) , 4, 1 (D) None of these
3
2(√𝟑 −1) x + 3 – 2 √𝟑 = 0, then the second root is
: 15. The equation √𝑥 + 1 − √𝑥 − 1 = √4𝑥 − 1 has
(A) √𝟑 – 2 (B) √𝟑 (C) 2 + √𝟑 (D) – √𝟑 (A) No solution
(B) One solution
7. – 2 + √𝟑 is a solution to which of the following (C) Two solutions
equations ? (D) More than two solutions
(A) 3x2 + 12x + 3 = 0 (B) x2 + 2x + 3 = 0
(C) x2 + 4x + 2 = 0 (D) 3x2 + 2x – 1 = 0 16. The number of real roots of the equation (x – 1)2
+ (x – 2)2 + (x – 3)2 = 0
8. The value (s) of k for which the quadratic equation (A) 0 (B) 2 (C) 3 (D) 6
kx2 – kx + 1 = 0 has equal roots is :
(A) k = 0 only (B) k = 4 only 17. Solve for x : (x + 2) (x – 5) (x – 6) (x + 1) = 144
(C) k = 0, 4 (D) k = – 4 (A) –1, –2, –3 (B) 7, –3, 2
(C) 2, –3, 5 (D) None of these

√𝟔 + √𝟔 + √𝟔 + √𝟔+. . . . . . . = ? 18. The values of x which satisfy the expression (5 +

9. 2 2
2√6)𝑥 −3 + (5 − 2√6)𝑥 −3 =10
(A) 3 (B) 6 (C) 9 (D)  (A) ± 2, ± √3 (B) ±√2, ± 4
(C) ± 2, ±√2 (D) 2, √2, √3
10. If the roots x1 and x2, of the quadratic equation x2
– 2x + c = 0 also satisfy the equation 7x2 – 4x1 = 19. If x2 – (a + b) x + ab = 0, then the value of (x – a)2
47, then which of the following is true? + (x – b)2 is
(A) c = –15 (B) x1 = 5, x2 = 3 (A) a2 + b2 (B) (a + b)2 (C) (a – b)2 (D) a2 – b2
(C) x1 = 4.5, x2 = –2.5 (D) None of these

11. Solve for x : x6 – 26x3 – 27 = 0

(A) –1, 3 (B) 1, 3 (C) 1, –3 (D) –1, –3

Answer Key
WORKED-OUT PROBLEMS - 1

Ques. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
Ans. A C A A C D A B A A A B B A A A B C C
11 Chapter 1 | Fundamentals of Mathematics

Chapter
Quadratic Equations
2
LECTURE-2 EQUATIONS REDUCIBLE
TO QUADRATIC EQUATION

A. IRRATIONAL OR SURD EQUATIONS WE shall now discuss some problems which give
DEFINITION : If the root of a quantity cannot be rise to quadratic equations.
exactly obtained the root is called a surd.
3 5
Thus √2, √5, √a3 , √a2 + b 2 are surds. Example 2.4
A surd is sometimes called an irrational quantity; A train travels 300 kilometres at a uniform speed; if
and quantities which are not surds are, for the the speed had been 5 kilometres per hour more, the
sake of distinction, termed rational quantities. journey would have taken two hours less: find the
speed of the train.
Sometimes equations are proposed in which the Solution : Suppose the train travels at the speed of x
unknown quantity appears under the radical sign. 300
For a fuller discussion of surd equations the kilometres per hour, then the time occupied is
x
student may consult the Elementary Algebra. hours.
300
Here we shall only consider a few simple cases, On the other supposition the time is hours;
x+5
which can generally be solved by the following 300 300
 = − 2;
method. Bring to one side of the equation a single x+5 x
radical term by itself: on squaring both sides this Hence x2 + 5 – 750 = 0, or (x + 30) (x – 25) = 0,
radical will disappear. By repeating this process  x = 25 or – 30.
any remaining radicals can in turn be removed. Hence the train travels 25 kilometres per hour, the
negative value being inadmissible.
Example 2.1
Example 2.5
Solve 2√x − √4x − 11 = 1.
A man buys a number of articles for Rs. 10, and sells all
Solution : Transposing, 2√x − 1 = √4x − 11
but two for Rs. 10.80 at 10 paise a piece more than
Square both sides; then
they cost; how many did he buy?
4x – 4√x + 1 = 4x – 11, Solution : Let x be the number of articles bought; then
4√x = 12, 1000
the cost price of each is paise, and the sale price is
√x = 3; 1080
x
 x = 9. x−2
paise.
1080 1000
 − = 10;
x−2 x
Example 2.2 That is,
108
−
100
= 1.
3 x−2 x
Solve 2 + √x − 5 = 13. After simplification, 8x + 20 = x2 – 2x,
3
Solution : Transposing, √x − 5 = 11. or x2 – 10x – 200 = 0;
Here we must cube both sides; thus x – 5 = 1331; that is, (x – 20) (x + 10) = 0;
whence x = 1336.  x = 20, or –10.
Thus the number required is 20.
Example 2.3
6√x−11 2√x+1 Example 2.6
Solve = 1
3√x √x+6
A cistern can be filled by two pipes in 33 minutes; if
Solution : Multiplying across, we have 3
(6√x − 11)(√x + 6) = 3√x(2√x + 1); the larger pipe takes 15 minutes less than the smaller
to fill the cistern, find in what time it will be filled by
that is, 6x − 11√x + 36√x − 66 = 6x + 3√x,
each pipe singly.
−11√x + 36√x − 3√x = 66,
Solution : Suppose that the two pipes running singly
22√x = 66, would fill the cistern in x and x – 15 minutes; then they
√x = 3; 1
will fill and
1
of the cistern respectively in one
 x = 9. x x−15
minute, and therefore when running together they will
1 1
PROBLEMS LEADING TO QUADRATIC EQUATIONS fill + of the cistern in one minute.
x x−15

By : Prashant Jain Sir

 Chapter 1 | Fundamentals of Mathematics 12
1 3
But they fill 1 or of the cistern in one minute. Note
33 100
3
1 1 3 1. By a simple reduction many equations can be
Hence + =
x x−15 100 brought to the form in which the above
100(2x – 15) = 3x(x – 15), equation is given. When this is the case, the
3x2 – 245x + 1500 = 0, necessary simplification is readily completed
(x – 75) (3x – 20) = 0; by "multiplying up" or "multiplying across'', as
2
 x = 75, or 6 . it is sometimes called.
3
Thus the smaller pipe takes 75 minutes, the larger 60
2
minutes. The other solution 6 is inadmissible. Example 2.9
3
8x+23 5x+2 2x+3
Solve − = − 1.
20 3x+4 5
Sometimes it will be found convenient to use more Solution : Multiply by 20, and we have
20(5x+2)
than one unknown. 8x + 23 – = 8x + 12 – 20.
3x+4
20(5x+2)
By transposition, 31 = .
3x+4
Example 2.7 Multiplying across, 93x + 124 = 20(5x + 2).
Nine times the side of one square exceeds the 84 = 7x;
perimeter of a second square by one metre, and six  x = 12.
times the area of the second square exceeds twenty- When two or more fractions have the same denominator,
nine limes the area of the first by one square metre; they should be taken together and simplified.
find the length of a side of each square.
Solution : Let x metres and y metres represent the Example 2.10
sides of the two squares; 1 1
then the perimeter of the second square is 4y metres; 13−2x 23x+8 16− x
3 4
Solve + = = 4.
thus x+3 4x+5 x+3

9x – 4y = l. Solution : By transposition, we have

1 1
23x+8 16− x−13+2x
The areas of the two squares are x2 and y2 square 3
−4= 4
4x+5 x+3
metres; thus 35 7x
7x− 3+
6y2 – 29x2 =1.  =3
. 4
9x−1 4x+5 x+3
From the first equation, y = . Multiplying across, we have ·
4
35x 35x
By substitution in the second equation, 7x 2 − + 21x − 35 = 12x + 7x 2 + 15 +
3 4
3(9x−1)2
− 29x 2 = 1; −
137x
= 50;
8 12
that is, 11x2 – 54x – 5 = 0,  x=−
600
.
or (x – 5) (11x + 1) = 0; 137
Whence x = 5, the negative value being inadmissible.
9x−1 Example 2.11
Also, y= = 11.
4
x−8 x−4 x−5 (x−7)
Thus, the lengths are 5 metres and 11 metres. Solve + = + .
x−10 x−6 x−7 x−9
Solution : This equation might be solved by clearing of
fractions, but the work would be very laborious. The
HARDER EQUATIONS solution will be much simplified by proceeding as
In this topic we propose to give a miscellaneous follows:
collection of equations. Some of these will serve as a x−8 x−5 x−7 (x−4)
Transposing, − = − .
useful exercise for revision of the methods already x−10 x−7 x−9 x−6
explained in previous topics; but we also add others Simplifying each side separately, we have
(x−8)(x−7)−(x−5)(x−10) (x−7)(x−6)−(x−4)(x−9)
presenting more difficulty, the solution of which will = ;
(x−10)(x−7) (x−9)(x−6)
often be facilitated by some special artifice. x2 −15x+56−(x2 −15x+50) x2 −13x+42−(x2 −13x+36)
The following examples worked in full will sufficiently  (x−10)(x−7)
= (x−9)(x−6)
illustrate the most useful methods. 6 6
 (x−l0)(x−7)
= (x−9)(x−6).
Hence, since the numerators are equal, the
Example 2.8 denominators must be equal;
6x−3 3x−2 that is, (x – l0)(x – 7) = (x – 9)(x – 6),
Solve = .
2x+7 x+5
x2 – 17x + 70 = x2 – 15x + 54;
Solution : Multiplying up, we have
 16 = 2x;
(6x – 3)(x + 5) = (3x – 2)(2x + 7).
6x2 + 27x – 15 = 6x2 + 17x – 14;  x = 8.
The above equation may also be solved very neatly by
 10x = 1;
1 the following artifice.
 x= . The equation may be written in the form
10
(x−10)+2 (x−6)+2 (x−7)+2 (x−9)+2
+ = + ;
x−10 x−6 x−7 x−9
whence we have
By : Prashant Jain Sir
13 Chapter 1 | Fundamentals of Mathematics
2 2 2 2 3
1+ +1+ =1+ +1+ ; Solution : Transposing √𝑥 − 5 = 11.
𝑥−10 𝑥−6 𝑥−7 𝑥−9
1 1 1 1 Here we must cube both sides; thus x – 5 = 1331;
which gives + = + .
x−10 x−6 x−7 x−9 whence x = 1336.
1 1 1 1
Transposing, − = − ;
x−10 x−7 x−9 x−6
3 3
 = . Example 2.15
(x−10)(x−7) (x−9)(x−6)
and the solution may be completed as before. Solve √𝑥 + 5 + √3𝑥 + 4 = √12𝑥 + 1.
Solution : Squaring both sides,
Example 2.12 x + 5 + 3x + 4 + 2√(𝑥 + 5)(3𝑥 + 4) = 12x + 1.
5x−64 2x−11 4x−55 x−6 Transposing and dividing by 2,
Solve − = − .
x−13 x−6 x−14 x−7 √(𝑥 + 5)(3𝑥 + 4) = 4x – 4 …(1).
Solution : We have Squaring
1 1 1 1
5+ − (2 + )=4+ − (1 + ); (x + 5)(3x + 4) =16x2 – 32x + 16,
x−13 x−6 x−14 x−7

1
−
1
= −
1
.
1 or 13x2 – 51x – 4 = 0,
x−13 x−6 x−14 x−7 (x – 4) (13x + 1) =0,
The solution may now be completed as before, and we 1
obtain x = 10.  x = 4, or – .
13
If we proceed to verify the solution by substituting
these values in the original equation, it will be found
1
EQUATIONS INVOLVING SURDS that it is satisfied by x = 4, but not by x = − . But this
13
Sometimes equations are proposed in which the latter value will be found on trial to satisfy the given
unknown quantity appears under the radical sign. equation if we alter the sign of the second radical, thus
Such equations are very varied in character and often √𝑥 + 5 − √3𝑥 + 4 = √12𝑥 + 1.
require special artifices for their solution. Here, we On squaring this and reducing, we obtain
shall only consider a few of the simpler cases, which
−√(𝑥 + 5)(3𝑥 + 4) = 4𝑥 − 4 ... (2)
can generally be solved by the following method. Bring
to one side of the equation a single radical term by and a comparison of (1) and (2) shows that in the next
stage of the work the same quadratic equation is
itself. On squaring both sides this radical will 1
disappear. By repeating this process any remaining obtained each case, the roots of which are 4 and − ,
13
radicals can in turn be removed. as already found.

Example 2.13
From this it appears that when the solution of an
Solve 2√𝑥 − √4𝑥 − 11 = 1. equation requires that both sides should be squared,
Solution : Transposing 2√𝑥 − 1 = √4𝑥 − 11. we cannot be certain without trial which of the values
Squaring both sides then found for the unknown quantity will satisfy the
4x – 4√𝑥 + 1 = 4x – 11, original equation.
4√𝑥 = 12, √𝑥 = 3; In order that all the values found by the solution of the
 x = 9. equation may be applicable it will be necessary to take
into account both signs of the radicals in the given
Example 2.14 equation.
3
Solve 2 + √𝑥 − 5 = 13.

WORKED-OUT PROBLEMS - 2
3 2
1. Solve the equations : √5 − 2x = 7. A reaches Q in 3 hours, and B reaches P in 4
7 3
3
hours after they meet: find the speed of each train.
2. Solve the equations : √x − 7 = 2.
8. Solve the equations :
3. Solve the equations : 2√5x − 3 − 7√x = 0. x 9−x x+1 8−x
(1) + = +
x−2 7−x x−1 6−x
m n n m
(2) + = a, + = b.
4. Solve the equations : 3√1 − 7x + 4x 2 = 5 − 6x. x y x y

5.
3
Solve the equations : 1 + √x 3 − 3x 2 + 7x − 11 = x. 9. Solve the equations:
6
(1) √x + 16 − √x = ;
1 √x
2√x−
6. Solve the equations :
2√x−3
= 2
3
. (2) √𝑥 2 + 11𝑥 + 20 − √𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 − 1 = 3;
√x−1 √x+3
(3)√{4x 2 + 20x + 17 + √16x 2 + 11x + 10}
7. Two trains A and B start simultaneously from two +2(x + 2) = 0.
stations P and Q which are 260 kilometres apart.
10. Solve the equations:
By : Prashant Jain Sir
 Chapter 1 | Fundamentals of Mathematics 14
a+√x a+√x b+√x 4𝑥 − 17 10𝑥 − 13 8𝑥 − 30 5𝑥 − 4
(1) + + + = + .
(b−√x)(c−√x) (b−√x)(c−√x) (c−√x)(a−√x)
𝑥−4 2𝑥 − 3 2𝑥 − 7 𝑥−1
c+√x
+ = 0.
(a−√x)(b−√x)
3 3 3
14. Solve the following :
(2) √1 + 𝑥 + √1 − 𝑥 = √2. √𝑥 − 4 + 3 = √𝑥 + 11.
11. Solve the following : 15. Solve the following :
𝑥−7 𝑥−9 𝑥 − 13 𝑥 − 15
− = − . √25𝑥 − 29 − √4𝑥 − 11 = 3√𝑥.
𝑥 − 9 𝑥 − 11 𝑥 − 15 𝑥 − 17

12. Solve the following : 16. Solve the following :

𝑥+3 𝑥+6 𝑥+2 𝑥+5 √8𝑥 + 17 − √2𝑥 = √2𝑥 + 9.
− = − .
𝑥+6 𝑥+9 𝑥+5 𝑥+8
17. Solve the following :
13. Solve the following : √𝑎 − 𝑥 + √𝑏 − 𝑥 = √𝑎 + √𝑏.

Answer Key
WORKED-OUT PROBLEMS - 2

1. –22 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
7. I =60 km/hr and II =80 km/hr. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13
1
12. –7 13. 2 14. 5 15. 9 16. 8 17. 0, a – b.
2

By : Prashant Jain Sir