SSC CGL 2018 PYQ — Question 15

SSC CGL Tier II Quant - 17/02/2018 • Quantitative Aptitude • Q15

If a³ + 3a² + 9a = 1, then what is the value of a³ + (3/a) ?

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct answer is option 3 ie 28.

a³ + 3a² + 9a = 1

a(a² + 3a +9) = 1

a² + 3a +9 = 1/a

a³ - b³ = (a - b)(a² + ab + b²)

for b = 3

a³ - 3³ = (a - 3)(a² + 3a + 9)

a³ - 27 = (a - 3)(1/a)

a³ + (3/a) = 1 + 27

a³ + (3/a) = 28