The value of x + x ( xx) when x = 2 is

The question as written, "x + x(xx)", is a bit ambiguous. In the original JAMB paper, the expression is most likely x + x(x^x), where the "xx" is a lost superscript. Let me check both readings.

Reading 1: xx means x × x (that is, x²)

x + x(x·x) = x + x³ = 2 + 2(4) = 2 + 8 = 10

Reading 2: xx means x^x

x + x(x^x) = 2 + 2(2²) = 2 + 2(4) = 2 + 8 = 10

Both readings give the same result, because when x = 2, x^x = 2² = 4 and x·x = 4 as well.

Step-by-step solution

1. Substitute x = 2: 2 + 2(2 × 2)
2. Work out the bracket first (BODMAS): 2 × 2 = 4
3. Multiply: 2 × 4 = 8
4. Add: 2 + 8 = 10

Answer: B (10)

Tip: Always follow BODMAS: Brackets, Orders (powers), Division, Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction. Do the bracket first, then multiply, and add last. Also, when you see a garbled expression in a question, test the possible readings. Here both give the same answer, so you can answer confidently.