Solve the equation: 3a + 10 = a\(^2\)
A
a = 5 or a = 2
B
a = -5 or a = 2
C
a = 10 or a = 0
D
a = 5 or a = 0
E
a = 5 or a = -2
Verified Correct Answer: E.
Step-by-Step Mathematical Solution
3a + 10 = a\(^2\)
a\(^2\) - 3a - 10 = 0
a\(^2\) - 5a + 2a - 10 = 0
a(a - 5) + 2(a - 5) = 0
(a - 5)(a + 2) = 0
a = 5 or a = -2.
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #22871)