WAEC 2017 Mathematics · Question 26

If x = 23\frac{2}{3} and y = - 6, evaluate xy - yx\frac{y}{x}

Options

  1. A.0
  2. B.5
  3. C.8
  4. D.9

Answer: B. 5

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: We substitute x = 2/3 and y = -6 into the expression xy - y/x and simplify.

Concept: Follow BODMAS. Do the multiplication and division first, then subtract. Be careful with negative signs, and remember that dividing by a fraction means multiplying by its reciprocal.

Step-by-step solution:

  1. Compute xy: xy = (2/3)(-6) = -4
  1. Compute y/x: y/x = -6 ÷ (2/3) = -6 × (3/2) = -9
  1. Subtract: xy - y/x = -4 - (-9) = -4 + 9 = 5

Answer: 5, which is option B.

Tip: When subtracting a negative, the two minus signs become a plus: -4 - (-9) = -4 + 9. Also, "dividing by a fraction" always means "multiply by the flip". Writing each part separately (xy first, then y/x) helps you avoid sign errors under exam pressure.

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