WAEC 2021 Mathematics · Question 9

If  2x−3\frac{2}{x-3} - 3x−2\frac{3}{x-2} = p(x−3)(x−2)\frac{p}{(x-3)(x -2)}, find p.

Options

  1. A.5 - x
  2. B.- (x + 5)
  3. C.13 - x
  4. D.- (5x - 13)

Answer: A. 5 - x

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question We need to combine the two fractions on the left into a single fraction and compare the numerator with p.

Step 2: Concept To subtract fractions, use the common denominator (x − 3)(x − 2).

Step 3: Solution

2x−3−3x−2=2(x−2)−3(x−3)(x−3)(x−2)\frac{2}{x-3}-\frac{3}{x-2}=\frac{2(x-2)-3(x-3)}{(x-3)(x-2)}

Expand the numerator:

  • 2(x − 2) = 2x − 4
  • 3(x − 3) = 3x − 9

Subtract:

2x − 4 − (3x − 9) = 2x − 4 − 3x + 9 = −x + 5 = 5 − x

So

2x−3−3x−2=5−x(x−3)(x−2)\frac{2}{x-3}-\frac{3}{x-2}=\frac{5-x}{(x-3)(x-2)}

Comparing with the right-hand side, p = 5 − x.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is A. 5 − x.

Tip: When subtracting fractions, put brackets around the second numerator after multiplying, such as −(3x − 9). The most common mistake is forgetting to change the sign of the +9. Note that the options include −(x + 5), which comes from that kind of sign error.

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