WAEC 2012 Mathematics · Question 41

Solve for x in the equation; 1x+23x=13\frac{1}{x} + \frac{2}{3x} = \frac{1}{3}

Options

  1. A.5
  2. B.4
  3. C.3
  4. D.1

Answer: A. 5

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: We need to find x such that 1/x + 2/(3x) = 1/3. Concept: Combine the fractions on the left using a common denominator, then cross-multiply. Solution: Step 1: The common denominator of x and 3x is 3x. 1/x = 3/(3x) So the left side is: 3/(3x) + 2/(3x) = 5/(3x) Step 2: Set it equal to the right side: 5/(3x) = 1/3 Step 3: Cross-multiply: 5 × 3 = 1 × 3x 15 = 3x x = 5 Check: 1/5 + 2/15 = 3/15 + 2/15 = 5/15 = 1/3 ✓ Tip: When an equation has x in several denominators, multiply every term by the LCD. Here, multiplying by 3x gives 3 + 2 = x, so x = 5 immediately. Always check your answer by substituting it back.

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