If a2 + b2 = 16 and 2ab = 7.Find all the possible values of (a - b)
A
3, -3
B
2, -2
C
1, -1
D
3, -1
Verified Correct Answer: A.
Step-by-Step Mathematical Solution
a2 + b2 = 16 and 2ab = 7
To find all possible values = (a - b)2 + b2 - 2ab
Substituting the given values = (a - b)2
= 16 - 7
= 9
(a - b) = \(\pm\)9
= \(\pm\)3
OR a - b = 3, -3
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #31454)