SSC CHSL 2025 PYQ — Question 73

SSC CHSL - 26 Nov 2025 - Shift 2 • Quantitative Aptitude • Q73

If a - 1/a = 2 then calculate the value of a⁴ + 1/a4?

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B

Explanation

Given:

a − 1/a = 2

By the formula:

(a − 1/a)² = a² + 1/a² − 2

(a − 1/a)² = 2²

4 = a² + 1/a² − 2

a² + 1/a² = 6

(a²+ 1/a²)² = a⁴ + 1/a⁴ + 2

6² = a⁴ + 1/a⁴ + 2

36 = a⁴ + 1/a⁴ + 2

a⁴ + 1/a⁴ = 34