SSC CGL 2018 PYQ — Question 84

SSC CGL Tier II Quant - 19/02/2018 • Quantitative Aptitude • Q84

If a + a2 + a3 – 1 = 0, then what is the value of a3 + 1/a?

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. 2

a + a2 + a3 – 1 = 0 .....(1)

Multiplying by 'a' on both sides

a2 + a3 + a4 - a = 0 

a2 + a3 = a - a4

from (1) [a2 + a3 = 1 - a]

1 - a = a - a4

a4 + 1 = 2a

(a4 + 1)/a = 2

a3 + (1/a) = 2