EXPONENTS AND RADICALS

LESSON OVERVIEW
In this lesson, we shall look at:
➢ Introduction to Exponents
➢ Laws of exponents
➢ Evaluating expressions with exponents
➢ Solving equations with exponents
➢ Simplifying square roots

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to
➢ Understand Exponents
➢ Apply the Laws of exponents
➢ Evaluate expressions with exponents
➢ Solve equations with exponents
➢ Simplify square roots

EXPONENTS
When a number is expressed in the form Ax, then we say that A is the base and x is the index or
exponent. An exponent refers to the number of times a number is multiplied by itself. For
example, 2 to the 3rd (written like this: 23) means: 2 x 2 x 2 = 8. 23 is not the same as 2 x 3 = 6.
Remember that a number raised to the power of 1 is itself.
In an expression 34, 3 is called the base and 4 is known as the index or exponent.

Laws of exponents
1. a0 = 1
Example
1000 = 1
640 = 1
30 = 1

2. a1 = a
Example
1001 = 100
641 = 64
31 = 3

3. Product-index law
It is given as am × an = am+n
where ‘a’ is any real number and also m and n are natural numbers.
Examples
a) 22 × 23 = 22+3 = 25 = 32
b) 53 × 53 = 53+3 = 56
c) 7 × 74 = 71+4 = 75
d) (2a )2 × (2a )4 =(2a)2+4 = (2a)6

4. The Quotient law.

It is given as am ÷ an = am - n where a≠0 and also m and n are natural numbers.

Examples
36
a) 36 ÷ 34 = 34 = 36−4 = 32 = 9
a12
b) = a12−7 = a5
a7
63w8
c) 7w5 = 9w 8−5 = 9w 3
5. The index law
It is given as (am)n = amn

Examples
a) (23)2 = 2(3x2) = 26 = 64
b) (42)4 = 4(2x4) = 48
c) 72(3) = 76

6. (ab)n = anbn
Example, (ab)2 = a2 b2

a n an
7. (b) = bn
Example
2 2 22 4
(3) = =9
32

1
8. a-m =am
Example
1
a-1 =
a
1
2-1 = 2
1
3-1 = 3
1
2-3 = 23
-5 1
4 = 45

a −n b n
9. (b) = (a)
Example
 2 −2 3 2
(3) = (2)

WORKED EXAMPLE 1
3⁄ 1⁄ −1⁄
Without using a calculator, find the value of (16) 4 × (125) 3 × (27) 3

Solution
3 1 −1
(16) ⁄4 × (125) ⁄3 × (27) ⁄3
3 1 −1
= (24 ) ⁄4 × (53 ) ⁄3 × (33 ) ⁄3
1
= 23 × 51 ×
3
8×5
=
3
40
= 3
= 1313

WORKED EXAMPLE 2
Given that 3−t = m, find 3t+2

Solution
 3t+2 = 3t × 32
=3t × 9
−t
But 3 = m
1
 3t = m
 3t m = 1
3t m 1
 =
m m
1
 3 = t
m

1
∴ 3t+2 = ×9
m
9
=m

WORKED EXAMPLE 3
If 4−m+2 = 𝑥, what is the value of 4m in terms of 𝑥?

Solution
4−m+2 = 4−𝑚 × 42
=4−𝑚 × 16
−m+2
But 4 = 𝑥
  4−𝑚 × 16 = 𝑥
 16(4−𝑚 ) = 𝑥
1
 16(4m ) = 𝑥
1 x
 = 16=
4m

 4m 𝑥 = 16
4𝑚 𝑥 16
 =
𝑥 𝑥
16
 4𝑚 = 𝑥

WORKED EXAMPLE 4
If 3𝑥+1 = 3−𝑥+7 , the value of 𝑥 ans 𝑥 = 3

WORKED EXAMPLE 5

4𝑥
If 2𝑥 − 𝑦 = 4, 𝑤ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑖𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒 𝑜𝑓 ans 16
2𝑦

EXERCISE 1
Evaluate the following without a calculator
1) (−2)3 𝑺𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 (−2)3 = − 8
2) (−2)4 𝑺𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 (−2)4 = 16
12 (−1)12 = 1
3) (−1) 𝑺𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏
4) (−1)19
5) −24
6) −(−2)3
7) −(−5)2
8) 50
9) 8−1
10) 4−2
11) 5−3

EXERCISE 2
Evaluate the following without a calculator
1) 22 × 3−1 × (−1)3
2) −12 × (−3)2 × (−2)4
3) −113 × (−1)32 × (2)4
4) 9−2 × (−2)0 × (−1)4

EXERCISE 3
Simplify the following so that your final result contains only one positive exponent. Do not use a
calculator.
1) 4𝑚3 . 3𝑚2
2) 2𝑥 −2 . 5𝑥 3
3) 6𝑥 −5 . 7𝑥 8
4) (3𝑚−3 )2
𝑥8
5) 𝑥5
4𝑚3 𝑛
6) (3𝑚5 𝑛)2
2
𝑥2
7) (𝑦 5)
3xy2 z3 2
8) ( )
2x2 y

EXERCISE 4
Simplify the following so that your final result contains only one positive exponent. Do not use a
calculator.
1 −1
1) (4abc −1 )2 × (2a2 b−1 C ⁄2 )2 ÷ (ab) ⁄2
2) (𝑥 − 𝑦) ÷ (𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 ) 1⁄2 × (𝑥 + 𝑦)2
3) (𝑥 2 − 1)3 × (𝑥 + 1)−2 ÷ (x + 1)−1

RADICALS
LESSON OVERVIEW
In this lesson, we shall look at:
➢ Introduction to radicals
➢ Simplifying square roots
➢ Solving equations with radicals

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to
➢ Understand radicals
➢ Simplify square roots
➢ Solve equations with radicals

RADICALS
The radical of a number is the same as the root of a number. The root can be a square root, cube
root, or in general, nth root. Thus, any number or expression that uses a root is known as a radical.
The radical can describe different kinds of roots for a number such as square root, cube root, fourth
root, and so on. The number written before the radical is known as the index number or degree.
This number helps in telling us how many times the number would be multiplied by itself to equal
the radicand. This is considered to be the opposite of an exponent just like addition being the
opposite of subtraction and division being the opposite of multiplication.
Square roots are just fractional exponents
For example
The square root of
1
1) 𝑥 2 = √𝑥
1
5
2) 𝑥 5 = √𝑥
2 1
5
3) 𝑥 5 = (𝑥 2 )5 = √𝑥 2
2 1
7
4) 𝑥 7 = (𝑥 2 )7 = √𝑥 2
5
4
5) √𝑥 5 = 𝑥 4

REDUCTION TO BASIC FORM

If the √𝑎, is such that it cannot be reduced further then it is said to be in the BASIC FORM. This
means that (a) does not contain a factor which is a perfect square. For example: √2, √3, √5, etc
are in the basic form and cannot be simplified any further. Check the following examples:
1. Simplify the following.
(a) √18

(b) √24

PERFECT SQUARES
A perfect square is a number that can be expressed as the product of two equal integers.

PERFECT SQUARE ROOTS CHART

1. √1 = 1
2. √4 = 2
3. √9 = 3
4. √16 = 4
5. √25 = 5
6. √36 = 6
7. √49 = 7
8. √64 = 8
9. √81 = 9
10. √100 = 10
11. √121 = 11
 12. √144 = 12
13. √169 = 13

Worked examples 1
Simplify the following.

(a) √27
= √3 × 9

= √3 × √9

= √3 × 3

= 3√3

(b) √32
= √8 × 4

= √8 × √4

= √8 × 2

= 2 × 2√2

= 4√2
OR

√32
= √16 × 2
= √16 × √2
= 4 × √2
= 4√2

(c) √8
= √4 × 2
= √4 × √2
= 2 × √2
= 2√2

(d) √128
= √64 × 2
 = √64 × √2
= 8 × √2
= 8√2

2. Simplify the following.

(c) √18

(d) √24

Solution

(𝑎) √18 = √9 × 2 = √9 × √2 = 3 × √2 = 3√2

(𝑏) √24 = √4 × 6 = √4 × √6 = 2√6

Worked examples 2

If 4√3 = √3𝑥, what is the value of 𝑥?

Solution

4√3 = √3𝑥

√3 × 4 × 4 = √3𝑥
√48 = √3𝑥

48 = 3𝑥
48 3𝑥
=
3 3
𝑥 = 16

Worked example 3
If 7√3 = 𝑥√2, what is the value of 𝑥?
Solution
7√3 = 5√𝑥
√72 × 3 = √52 × 𝑥
√147 = √25𝑥
147 =25𝑥
147 25𝑥
= 25
25
147
𝑥=
25
EXERCISE 5
Simplify the following or solve for 𝑥. Do not use a calculator.

1) √18
2) √32
3) √45
4) 3√27
5) 5√12
6) 2√5 = √𝑥
7) 5√3𝑥 = 4√5

EXERCISE 6
Simplify the following or solve for 𝑥. Do not use a calculator.

1) √200
2) 2√75
3) √128
4) 𝑥√𝑥 = √216
5) 2√18 = 𝑥√3
6) 5√72 = √2𝑥

TEST ON EXPONENTS AND RADICALS (REFER TO BOOK PAGE 13-14)

(DURATION 40 MINUTES)

PERCENT

LESSON OVERVIEW
In this lesson, we shall look at:
⟹Introduction to percentages
⟹Percent change
⟹ Simple interest and compound interest
⟹ Percent word problems

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to
⟹ Understand percentages
⟹ Solve Percent change problems
⟹ apply Simple interest and compound interest formulas to solve
problems
PERCENT
Definition
The term Percent means Out of Hundred. OR It is a fraction with 100 as a denominator.
Percentage is denoted by the symbol ' % '.

FINDING THE PERCENTAGE OF A GIVEN QUANTITY

𝑷𝒆𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒈𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒗𝒂𝒍𝒖𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆
= ×
𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒒𝒖𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒒𝒖𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒒𝒖𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒚
Worked Example 1
1. Find 20% of GH¢400.00
Solution
20
20% of 400 = 100 × 400 = GH¢80.00

Worked Example 2
This year, the chickens on a farm laid 45% less eggs than they did last year. If they laid 4300 eggs
this year, how many did they lay last year?
Solution
This year = 55% of last year
4300 = 0.55 of last year
4300 0.55
= of Last year
0.55 0.55
Last year = 7818

INCREASING A QUANTITY BY A PERCENTAGE

Steps
The following are the steps to be noted when increasing a given quantity by a percentage:
1) The original quantity is equivalent to 100%
2) Add the percentage increase (y) to the original to become (100 + y) % to obtain the new value
or amount.

.:New 𝑛𝑒𝑤 𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒

value = 𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑔𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑙 × Value of original Quantity
𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒

100+ 𝑦
= × value of original quantity.
100

Worked example
1) The population of Kojokrom increased by 23% between the year 1950 and 1960. If the
population in 1950 was 21,000 people, what is the population in 1960?

Solution
The original percentage = 100%
Percentage increase = 23%
Initial population = 21,000
New population =y
100+23
But new population in 1960 = × 21,000
100
123
= 100 × 21,000

25,830 people
DECREASING A GIVEN QUANTITY BY A PERCENTAGE
In order to decreasing a given quantity by a percentage, the following are the steps involved:
steps
1) The original quantity or value is equivalent to 100%
2) Subtract the percentage decrease (y) from the original to become (100 - y)% to obtain a value
or quantity equivalent to the new value.

.: 𝑛𝑒𝑤 𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒 value of original quantity.

New value = 𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑔𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑙 ×
𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒

100 − 𝑦
= × original quantity
100

Worked example
1) A shop offers a reduction of 29% on all items purchased. How much will a customer pay for an
item (n) with a price tag of GH¢400.00

Solution
Percentage decrease = 29%
Original percentage = 100%
Original value = GH¢400.00
.: 100 − 29
New value (n) = × 400
100
71
= 100 × 400

= GH¢ 284.00

Percentage Change
𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒
It is given as; Percentage change = × 100
𝑂𝑟𝑖𝑔𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒

Worked example
1. The population of kojokrom increased by 4,830 between the year 1950 and 1960. If the
population in 1950 was 21,000 people, what was the percentage in 1960?

Solution
Initial population = 21,000
Increase in population = 4,830
Incerase
Percentage change = initial population × 100
4830
= × 100
21000

= 23%
2) In the year 2012, the number of visitors to the Likpe -Todome water-falls was 3,350. The
following year, the number of visitors was 4,210. Find the percentage increase in the number of
visitors.

Solution
Number of visitors in 2012 = 3, 350.
Number of visitors in 2013 = 4,210
Increase in the no. of visitors = No. in 2013 - No. in 2012
= 4,210 – 3,350
= 860 visitors
.: 𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑒
Percentage change = 𝑂𝑟𝑖𝑔𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒 × 100
860
= 3,350 × 100

= 25.67%
3) The cost of running an election in a country in the year 2004 was GH¢2,700.00. If the cost
increases to GH¢4,521.00 in 2008, what is the percentage increase in running the election over the
four years?

Solution
Cost of running the election in 2004 = GH¢2,700.00
Cost of running the election in 2008 = GH¢45, 21, 00
.: 𝐼𝑛𝑐𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑒
Percentage change = 𝑂𝑟𝑖𝑔𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒 × 100
4,521−2700
= × 100
2,700
1821
= 2700 × 100

= 67.44%

Abena got 50% of the questions correct on a 30 question test and 90% on a 50 question test. What
percent of all the questions did Abena get correct?

Solution
Steps
Find the total number of questions she got correct
Find the total number of questions altogether
Substitute into the formula to obtain the final result
Hence;
50
50% of 30 = 100 × 30 = 15
90
90% of 50 = 100 × 50 = 45
Total number of questions correct = 15 + 45 = 60
total number of questions altogether = 30 + 50 = 80
60
percent of all correct questions = 80 × 100 = 75%
The price of a dress is increased by 20%, then decreased by $0%, then increased by 25%. The final
price is what percent of the original price?

Solution
Let 𝑥 = the original price
120 60 125
The final price = 𝑥 × 100 × × 100
100
120 60 125
= 𝑥 × 100 × × 100
100
9
= 10 𝑥
Hence, the final price is 90% of the original price

If the price of a dress starts out at $40 and rises to $70, find the percent change.

Solution
.: 70−40
Percentage change = × 100
40
30
= 40 × 100

= 75%
At the melcom, the number of fridges sold during the week of promotion was 800. The number of
fridges sold the following week was 420. Find the approximate percent increase in fridge sales
from the promotion week to the following week.

Solution
.: 800−420
Percentage increase = × 100
800
380
= 800 × 100

= 47.5%
= 48%

Simple interest and compound interest

Simple Interest
Interest (I) is the payment made for the use of another person’s money.
Or
Interest is the money paid in excess of the principal (P). Also the percentage of the principal that
is to be paid as interest is the rate (R). Finally, the period allowed for the repayment of the principal
is the time (T).
𝑃𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑖𝑝𝑎𝑙 (𝑃) × Rate (R) × Time (T)
Mathematically, I = 100

I = 𝑃𝑅𝑇
Hence, the amount (A) at the end of the period is given as;
Amount = principal + interest
A=P+I
A = P + 𝑃𝑅𝑇
= 𝑃(1 + 𝑅𝑇)
Where, A is the total amount accumulated, P is the principal or initial amount, R is the interest
rate, and t is the number of times interest is earned ( Typically the number of years).
Work example 1
An investor decides to offer a business owener a $5000 loan at simple interest of 10% per year.
What is the total amount the investor will receive when the loan is repaid after t years?
Solution
A = P + 𝑃𝑅𝑇
= 𝑃(1 + 𝑅𝑇)
= 5000(1 + 0.1𝑡)

Work example 2
Find the amount if GH¢1,250.00 was invested for 3 years at 7.5% per annum.
Solution
Given; principal (P) = GH¢1,250, Time (I) = 3 years, Rate (R) = 7.5% and I = ?
A = 𝑃(1 + 𝑅𝑇)
= 1250[(1 + 0.075(3)]
= 1250[(1 + 0.225)]
= 1250[1.225]
= GH¢1531.25
Work example 3
Find the time in which $51 will amount to $71 at 2.5% per annum.
Solution
A = 𝑃(1 + 𝑅𝑇)
71 = 51[(1 + 0.025𝑡)]
71 = 51 + 1.275𝑡
71 − 51 = 1.275𝑡
20 = 1.275𝑡
20 1.275𝑡
=
1.275 1.275
𝑡 = 15.69 = 16 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑠

COMPOUND INTEREST
It is the interest calculated on the principal at regular intervals so that the principal grows as interest
is added.
Most of the compound interest problems can be modelled by the equation
𝐴 = 𝑃(𝟏 + 𝒓)𝑡
Where A is the total amount accumulated, P is the principal or initial amount, r is the interest rate
and t is the number of times interest is received.
But if interest is compounded more than once a year, the previous formula can be generalized to
𝒓 𝑛𝑡
𝐴 = 𝑃 (𝟏 + )
𝒏
Where A is the total amount accumulated, P is the principal or initial amount, r is the interest rate
n is the number of times interest is compounded each year and t is the number of years.

Worked example 1
Enoch puts an initial deposit of $900 into a bank account that earns 4% interest each year,
compounded semiannually. Write an equation to give the total amount, A, in the account after t
years.

Solution
𝒓 𝑛𝑡
𝐴 = 𝑃 (𝟏 + )
𝒏
0.04 2𝑡
𝐴 = 900 (1 + )
2
= 900(1 + 0.02)2𝑡
= 900(1.02)2𝑡

Worked example 2
Abigail has a savings account that earns 5% interest compounded annually. Her initial deposit was
$6000. Write an expression to give the value of the account after 7 years?
Solution
𝐴 = 𝑃(𝟏 + 𝒓)𝑡
𝐴 = 6000(1 + 0.05)7
= 6000(1.05)7

Worked example 3
A five-year bond is opened with $5000 in it and an interest rate of 2.5%, compounded annually.
This account is allowed to compound for five years. What is the total amount in the account after
that period of time?
Solution
𝐴 = 𝑃(𝟏 + 𝒓)𝑡
𝐴 = 5000(1 + 0.025)5
= 5000(1.025)5
= $5657

Worked example 4
Frank deposits $1,000 into a bank account that earns 5% interest compounded semiannually. Find
the total amount in the account after 6 years.

Solution
𝒓 𝑛𝑡
𝐴 = 𝑃 (𝟏 + )
𝒏
0.05 6(2)
𝐴 = 1000 (1 + )
2
= 1000(1 + 0.025)12
= 1000(1.025)12
= $1344.89
= $1345.00

Worked example 5

Jack has $15,000 to invest. If he invests two-thirds of it into a high-yield savings account with an
annual interest rate of 8%, compounded quarterly, and the other third in a regular savings account
at 6% simple interest, how much does Jack earn after one year?

Solution
2
Principal invested in a high-yield savings account = × 15000 = $10000
3

𝒓 𝑛𝑡
𝐴 = 𝑃 (𝟏 + )
𝒏
0.08 4(1)
𝐴 = 10000 (1 + )
4
= 10000(1 + 0.02)4
= 10000(1.02)4
= $10824.32
 1
Principal invested in a regular savings account = × 15000 = $5000
3

𝐼 = 𝑃𝑅𝑇
𝐼 = 5000 × 0.06 × 1
=$300.00
Therefore, after one year, Jack earned 10828.32+300 = $11124.32

EXPONENTIAL VS. LINEAR GROWTH

In this lesson, we'll learn to:

1. Determine whether two variables have a linear or exponential relationship based on their values
2. Determine whether a real-world scenario exhibits linear or exponential growth

LINEAR GROWTH
Linear growth occur by adding the same amount in each unit of time. Exponential growth happens
when an initial population increases by the same percentage or factor over equal time increments
or generations. This is known as relative growth and is usually expressed as percentage. For
example, Assuming a population is growing by 1.6% each year. For every 1000 people in the
population, there will be 1000×0.016=16 more people added per year.

EXPONENTIAL GROWTH
Exponential growth is a pattern of data that shows greater increases with passing time, creating the
curve of an exponential function.
OR
A quantity grows exponentially if it grows by a constant factor or rate for each unit of time.
Graphical Comparison of Linear and Exponential Growth

In this graph, the blue straight line represents linear growth and the red curved line represents
exponential growth.

For example, suppose a population of mice rises exponentially by a factor of two every year
starting with 2 in the first year, then 4 in the second year, 8 in the third year, 16 in the fourth year,
and so on. The population is growing by a factor of 2 each year in this case. If mice instead give
birth to four pups, you would have 4, then 16, then 64, then 256.
Exponential growth (which is multiplicative) can be contrasted with linear growth (which is
additive) and with geometric growth (which is raised to a power).

Applications of Exponential Growth

Assume you deposit $1,000 in an account that earns a guaranteed 10% rate of interest. If the
account carries a simple interest rate, you will earn $100 per year. The amount of interest paid
will not change as long as no additional deposits are made.

If the account carries a compound interest rate, however, you will earn interest on the cumulative
account total. Each year, the lender will apply the interest rate to the sum of the initial deposit,
along with any interest previously paid. In the first year, the interest earned is still 10% or $100.
In the second year, however, the 10% rate is applied to the new total of $1,100, yielding $110.
With each subsequent year, the amount of interest paid grows, creating rapidly accelerating, or
exponential, growth. After 30 years, with no other deposits required, your account would be worth
$17,449.40.

The Formula for Exponential Growth

The graph illustrates how exponential growth (green) surpasses both linear (red) and cubic (blue)
growth.
Linear growth
Cubic growth
Exponential growth

On a chart, this curve starts slowly, remains nearly flat for a time before increasing swiftly to
appear almost vertical. The formula for exponential growth of a variable P at the growth rate r, as
time t goes on in discrete intervals is 𝐴 = 𝑃(𝟏 + 𝒓)𝑡

The current value, A, of an initial starting point subject to exponential growth, can be determined
by multiplying the starting value, P, by the sum of one plus the rate of interest, r, raised to the
power of t, or the number of periods that

Exponential growth occurs when the instantaneous rate of change (that is, the derivative) of a
quantity with respect to time is proportional to the quantity itself. Described as a function, a
quantity undergoing exponential growth is an exponential function of time, that is, the variable
representing time is the exponent (in contrast to other types of growth, such as quadratic growth).
If the constant of proportionality is negative, then the quantity decreases over time, and is said to
be undergoing exponential decay instead. In the case of a discrete domain of definition with equal
intervals, it is also called geometric growth or geometric decay since the function values form
a geometric progression.
WORKED EXAMPLE 1

A city is growing at a rate of 3% per year. The initial population in 2018 is 120000 Calculate the
city’s population over the next few years.
Solution
𝑁𝑒𝑤 𝑃𝑜𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 = 𝑃(𝟏 + 𝒓)𝑡

𝑁𝑒𝑤 𝑃𝑜𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑖𝑛 2019 = 120000(𝟏 + 𝟎. 𝟎𝟑)1 = 120000(𝟏. 𝟎𝟑) = 123,600

𝑁𝑒𝑤 𝑃𝑜𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑖𝑛 2020 = 123600(𝟏 + 𝟎. 𝟎𝟑)2 = 120000(𝟏. 𝟎𝟑)2 = 127308
𝑁𝑒𝑤 𝑃𝑜𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑖𝑛 2021 = 120000(𝟏 + 𝟎. 𝟎𝟑)3 = 120000(𝟏. 𝟎𝟑)3 = 131127
Hence the equation for the city’s growth is 𝑁𝑒𝑤 𝑃𝑜𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 = 120000(𝟏. 𝟎𝟑)𝑡

WORKED EXAMPLE 2
Ho has declined in population at a rate of 5% per year over the last 25 years. The population in
1990 was 255,000. Find the population in 2021.

Solution
P=255000,r=0.05, t=2021-1990= 31
𝑁𝑒𝑤 𝑃𝑜𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑖𝑛 2021 = 255000(𝟏 + 𝟎. 𝟎𝟓)31
= 255000(𝟏. 𝟎𝟓)31
= 1157200

WORKED EXAMPLE 3
In May of 2014 there were 15 cases of Ebola in a certain country. By August, there were 850 cases.
If the virus is spreading at the same rate (exponential growth), how many cases will there be in
February of 2015?
Solution
To do this, use the initial population P =15 in May 2014. Also, in August, three months later, the
number of cases was 850 so, when t = 3, 𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑎𝑠𝑒𝑠 (𝑁) = 850, r = ?
𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑎𝑠𝑒𝑠 (𝑁) = 𝑃(𝟏 + 𝒓)𝑡

850 = 15(𝟏 + 𝒓)3

850 15(𝟏 + 𝒓)3

=
15 15

(𝟏 + 𝒓)3 = 56.67

3 3
√(𝟏 + 𝒓)3 = √56.67

1 + 𝑟 = 3.84

𝑟 = 3.84 − 1
𝑟 = 2.84

The growth rate is 284% per month. Thus, the exponential growth model is:
𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑎𝑠𝑒𝑠 (𝑁) = 15(𝟏 + 𝟐. 𝟖𝟒)𝑡
(𝑁) = 15(𝟑. 𝟖𝟒)𝑡
Now, we use this to calculate the number of cases of Ebola in a certain country in February 2015,
which is 9 months after the initial outbreak, so, if t=9
 𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑎𝑠𝑒𝑠 = 15(𝟑. 𝟖𝟒)9 = 272525
If this same exponential growth rate continues, the number of Ebola cases in Sierra Leone in
February 2015 would be 2,725,250.

WORKED EXAMPLE 4
According to a new forecast, the population of a certain country is in a decline. If the population
in 2010 is 3,978,000 and the prediction for the population in 2050 is 3,697,000, find the annual
percent decrease rate.

Solution
To solve this problem we use the exponential growth model. We need to solve for r.

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑎𝑠𝑒𝑠 (𝑁) = 𝑃(𝟏 + 𝒓)𝑡

When t = 40, N = p = 3978000, N = 3697000
3697000 = 3978000(𝟏 + 𝒓)40

3697000 13978000(𝟏 + 𝒓)40

=
3978000 3978000

(𝟏 + 𝒓)40 = 0.92936

40 40
√(𝟏 + 𝒓)3 = √0.92936

1 + 𝑟 = 0.99817

𝑟 = 0.99817 − 1
𝑟 = −0.0018
The annual percent decrease is 0.18%.
WORKED EXAMPLE 5

The average inflation rate of a certain country over the last five years is 1.7% per year. If a new
car cost $18,000 five years ago, how much would it cost today?
COMPARING EXPONENTIAL GROWTH AND DECAY TO LINEAR GROWTH AND
DECAY

To compare exponential growth and decay to linear growth and decay, linear growth can be
modelled by a line with a positive slope.
For instance, if Israel has a piggybank with 30 dollars in it and he adds 15 dollars every month,
the total amount in the piggybank can be modelled by
𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑎𝑚𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑡(𝐴) = 15𝑡 + 30

Where A is the total amount

t is the number of months and
the initial amount (P) = $30
A

In a linear growth, growth is constant. It goes up by the same amount each time. The same holds
for a linear decay. For example,

If Israel has a piggybank with GH¢30 dollars in it and he takes GH¢15.00 every month out of his
piggybank, the total amount in the piggybank can be modelled by
𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑎𝑚𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑡(𝐴) = 30 − 15𝑡
The decrease is at a constant rate and the slope is negative

Both exponential decay and linear decay are examples of a negative association between two
things. As one thing increases, the other decreases.
Diag.

When the data points are close to forming a smooth line or graph that shows the negative
relationship, then we say that there is a strong negative association.

Correlation and association

Association between two variables means the values of one variable relate in some way to the
values of the other.
Correlation analysis explores the association between two or more variables and makes inferences
about the strength of the relationship.

Note: It is common to use the terms correlation and association interchangeably. Technically,
association refers to any relationship between two variables, whereas correlation is often used to
refer only to a linear relationship between two variables. The terms are used interchangeably in
this guide, as is common in most statistics texts.
RATIO

A ratio is a relation between two quantities of the same kind with regard to their magnitude. It is
also the comparison between two quantities of the same kind in order to determine the number of
times one quantity is contained by the other. The two quantities should be expressed in the same
units.

Ratio can be written in several ways:

For example
6
1. A ratio of 6 girls out of 18 girls can be written as 6 out of 18 or 6:18 or 18
2. A weight of 7g and another 9g are similarly in the ratio 7 : 9
How to share in a given ratio

1. Find the total ratio

2. Multiply each fraction by the total quantity or amount to be shared.

Worked Example

1. Share 240 exercise books to two brothers in the ratio 3:7

Solution

Total ratio = 3 + 7 = 10
3
First brother’s share = 10 × 240
= 72 books
7
Second brother’s share = 10 × 240
= 168 books

TYPES OF RATIO

There are two types of ratio. They are:

(a) Direct ratio
(b) Indirect or Inverse ratio

(a) Direct ratio

In this type of ratio problems as one quantity increases the other quantity also increase.
Example
If 9 note books cost GH¢ 36.45, how many can be bought for GH¢52.65?

Solution
Given 9 note books = GH¢ 36.45
x note books = GH¢ 52.65
 9 : x = 36.45 : 52.65
 if 9 = 36.45
then x = 52.65

By cross multiplication,
 36.45x = 9(52.65)
 36.45x = 473.85
36.45𝑥 473.85
 36.45 = 36.45
 x = 13

Therefore, 13 note books can be bought at GH¢52.65

(b) Inverse ratio

In this type of ratio problems as one quantity increases the other quantity also decreases.

Illustrative Examples

1. If 18 people paints a building in 42 days, how long will 14 people take to paint the same
building?

Solution
18 people = 42 days
14 people = x days
Since 18 people used 42 days to do the painting,
18 ×42
14 people (x) = 14
 x = 18 × 3 = 54 days

Hence 14 people will use 54 days to paint the same building

Worked Examples

1. An amount of $2700.00 is shared among Peace, Sandra and Evelyn in the ratio 2:3:1
respectively. How much did each receive?

Solution
Total amount = $2700.00
Total ratio = 2 + 3 + 1 = 6
2
Peace’s share = 6 × 2700 = $ 900.00

3
Sandra’s share = 6 × 2700 = $ 1350.00

1
Evelyn’s share = 6 × 2700.00 = $ 450.00
2. Mr. Deku shared GH¢ 595.00 between his three children in the ratio of 3:5:7. How much did
each child receive?

Solution
Total amount = GH¢ 595.00
Total ratio = 3 + 5 + 7 = 15
3
First Child = 15 × 595 = GH¢ 119.00
5
Second Child = 15 × 595 = GH¢ 198.33
7
Third Child = × 595 = GH¢277.67
15

3. Write the following ratios in their simplest form

(a) 8 : 4 ans 2 :1
(b) 20 : 5 ans 4 :1
(c) 1 hour : 20mins ans 3 :1

PROPORTION
It is a comparison of two ratios. There are two types of proportions. They are direct proportion and
compound proportions. In general, if a, b, c and d are numbers or variables and
𝑎 𝑐
= 𝑑, then it implies that ad = bc (by cross multiplication)
𝑏

Example 1
1
If the area of a triangle is 𝐴 = 2 𝑏ℎ and the height is doubled, what is the new area of the triangle?
Solution
1
𝐴𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑜𝑙𝑑 = 2 𝑏ℎ
But if h is doubled, then ℎ = 2ℎ
1
𝐴𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑛𝑒𝑤 = 2 𝑏(2ℎ) = 𝑏ℎ
Also, if the height is tripled, then ℎ = 3ℎ
1
𝐴𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑛𝑒𝑤 = 2 𝑏(3ℎ)
1
= 3 ( 𝑏ℎ)
2
= 3(𝑜𝑙𝑑 𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎)

Example 2

The radius of a circle is increased by 30%. By what percent does the area of the circle increase?

Solution
𝐴𝑜𝑙𝑑 = 𝜋𝑟 2
If the radius is increased by 30%, then the new radius is 𝑟 = 1.3𝑟
𝐴𝑛𝑒𝑤 = 𝜋(1.3𝑟)2
= 1.69𝜋𝑟 2
= 1.69(𝑜𝑙𝑑 𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎)
Hence, the new area increases by 69%
Example 3

The length of a rectangle increased by 40%. If the width is decreased by 15%, what is the change
in the area of the rectangle?

Solution
𝐴𝑜𝑙𝑑 = 𝑙𝑤
𝑙𝑛𝑒𝑤 = 1.4𝑙
𝑤𝑛𝑒𝑤 = 0.85𝑤

𝐴𝑛𝑒𝑤 = (1.4𝑙 )(0.85𝑤)

𝐴𝑛𝑒𝑤 = 1.19(𝑙𝑤)
𝐴𝑛𝑒𝑤 = 1.19 (𝑜𝑙𝑑 𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎)
The area has increased by 19%

Example 4

The length of a rectangle increased by 35%. If the width is decreased by 35%, what is the change
in the area of the rectangle?

Solution
𝐴𝑜𝑙𝑑 = 𝑙𝑤
𝑙𝑛𝑒𝑤 = 1.35𝑙
𝑤𝑛𝑒𝑤 = 0.65𝑤

𝐴𝑛𝑒𝑤 = (1.35𝑙 )(0.65𝑤)

𝐴𝑛𝑒𝑤 = 0.88(𝑙𝑤)
𝐴𝑛𝑒𝑤 = 0.88 (𝑜𝑙𝑑 𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎)
The area has decreased by 12%
Example 5
9𝑐 𝑐
The force of attraction between two particles can be determined by the formula 𝐹 = 𝑟12 2 . F is
the force between them, r is the distance between them, 𝑐1 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑐2 are the charges on the two
particles. If the distance between the two charged particles is doubled, the resulting force of
attraction is what fraction of the original force?
Solution
9𝑐1 𝑐2
𝐹𝑜𝑙𝑑 =
𝑟2
If the distance between the charges is doubled, then r = 2r
9𝑐1 𝑐2
Hence, 𝐹𝑛𝑒𝑤 = (2𝑟) 2
 9𝑐1 𝑐2
=
4𝑟 2
1 9𝑐1 𝑐2
= ( 2 )
4 𝑟
1
= (𝑜𝑙𝑑 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑐𝑒)
4
1
The new force is 4 of the original force.
Exercise 6

The volume of a cube is tripled. The Length of each side must have been increased by
approximately what percent?
Solution
Let 𝑙 be the length of a side of the cube
Hence,
Volume, 𝑉 = 𝑙 3
𝑉𝑛𝑒𝑤 = 3𝑙 3
Factor increased by each side = 𝑥
,
𝑉𝑛𝑒𝑤 = (𝑥𝑙)3
𝑉𝑛𝑒𝑤 = 𝑥 3 𝑙 3
𝑉𝑛𝑒𝑤 = 𝑥 3 (𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑔𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒)

By comparing,
𝑥3 = 3
3 3
√𝑥 = √3
3
𝑥 = √3 = 1.44
Hence, each side must have been increased by 44%.

RATES

A rate is a comparison, expressed as a quotient, of two quantities that have different units of
measurement. There are two common methods for solving problems involving rates.

1. Direct method (By multiplication or division)

Steps
i. Identify the unit of the result
ii. Set up the calculation so that the appropriate units will divide out, leaving the unit of
the result
iii. Multiply or divide the numbers as usual to obtain the numerical part of the result
iv. Divide out the common units to obtain the unit of the answer.
2. Proportion method
Steps
i. Identify the known rate, and write it in fractional form
ii. Identify the given information and the quantity to be determined
iii. Write a second fraction, placing the given information and the quantity x in the same
positions as their units in the known rate
iv. Equate the two fractions to obtain a proportion equation
v. Solve the equation for x, affixing the correct unit to the numerical result

Average Speed
The average speed is the total distance traveled by an object in a particular time interval. The
average speed is a scalar quantity. It is represented by the magnitude and does not have
direction. The formula for average speed is found by calculating the ratio of the total distance
traveled by the body to the time taken to cover that distance.
The average speed equation is articulated as:
𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑑 (𝑘𝑚)
Average Speed = 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑘𝑒𝑛 (ℎ)
or
𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑑 (𝑚)
=
𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑘𝑛𝑒 (𝑠)

Worked Example 1
A car can travel 1 mile in 1 minute and 15 seconds. At this rate, how many miles can the car travel
in 1 hour?
Solution
If 60s = 1m
75 75
Then 75s = 60 × 1m = 60 m
Also, if 60m = 1h
75
75 m 75
60
Then 60 m = 60𝑚 × 1h = 60×60h
Hence, if
75
h = 1 mile
60×60
1
Then, 1h = 75
60×60
1 60×60
= 1 × 75 × 1 mile
= 48 miles

Worked Example 2
A car manufacturer can produce 50 cars per hour. How many hours would it take the manufacturer
to produce 350 cars?

Solution
50 𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑠 350 𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑠
=
1 ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑡
50 𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑠 × 𝑡 = 350 𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑠 × 1 ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑟
50𝑡 = 350
50𝑡 350
=
50 50
𝑡 = 7 ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠

A box at the supermarket can hold 6 oranges each. Each orange cost GH¢20. Given that the
supermarket has a budget of GH¢500 to stock oranges, how many boxes will the supermarket be
able to completely fill?

Solution

Worked Example 3

A car travels a distance of 140km in 4 hours. What is the rate in Km/h?

Solution

Given Distance covered = 140km

Total time taken = 4 hours
𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑑
But Average Speed = 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑘𝑒𝑛
140 𝑘𝑚
= 4
= 35 𝑘𝑚/ℎ

Worked Example 4
A car travels at a speed of 40 km/hr for 2 hours and then decides to slow down to 30 km/hr for
the next 2 hours. What is the average speed?
Solution
D1 = 40 × 2 = 80 miles
D2 = 30 × 2 = 60 miles
Total distance D = D1+D2
D = 80 + 60
D = 140 miles
Total time taken = 2+2 = 4hours
𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑑
Average speed = 𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑘𝑒𝑛
140
= 4

= 35 m/s
Worked Example 5
Kofi receives GH¢160,000.00 when he works for 3 weeks. Find the rate of his pay per day to the
nearest cedi.

Solution

Given Total amount received = GH¢160,000.00

Total number of days = 3 weeks = 21 days
𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑎𝑚𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑡
But the rate per day = 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑑𝑎𝑦𝑠
160,000
= 21
= GH¢7619.05
= GH¢7619.00

Worked Example 6
Alidu rides on his motor bike from Ho to Likpe Todome a distance of 65km in 90 minutes. Express
the rate in metres per second.

Solution

Total distance covered = 65km

= 65 × 1000m
= 65,000m
Total time taken = 90 × 60s = 5400s

 rate in metres per seconds

𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑑
= 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑘𝑒𝑛
65000𝑚
= 5400𝑠
= 12.04m/s
Worked Example 7
Sitsofe drove from Ho to Tamale a distance of 360km at a certain average speed. On his return
journey, due to an emergency phone call he received, he increased his average speed by 30km/h
and the time he used was 1 hour shorter. Find his average speed from:
(a) Ho to Tamale
(b) Tamale to Ho.

Solution
Let 𝑥 = the Average speed and t = 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑘𝑒𝑛
Average speed from Ho to Tamale
𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑒𝑒
𝑥= 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑘𝑒𝑛
360
𝑥= ------------------1
𝑡

Average speed from Tamale to Ho

360
 𝑥 + 30 = ------------------2
𝑡−1

Equation 1 – equation 2
360 360
 𝑥 − (𝑥 + 30) = −
𝑡 𝑡−1
360 360
 − = -30
𝑡 𝑡−1

360 (𝑡−1)−360𝑡
 = -30
𝑡 (𝑡−1)

360𝑡−360−360𝑡
 = -30
𝑡 (𝑡−1)

−360
 𝑡 (𝑡−1) = -30

 -30 𝑡 (𝑡 − 1) = −360
 𝑡 (𝑡 − 1) = 12
 𝑡 2 – t -12 = 0
Solving the quadratic equation, we have
 𝑡 = 4, 𝑡 = −3
Hence the total time taken is 4hours
360
(a) Average speed from Ho to Tamale = 4
= 90km/h
360 360
(b) Average speed from Ho to Tamale = 4−1 = = 120km/h
3
Worked Example 7
An aircraft leaves Accra at 4:00 am and reaches Tamale a distance of 2,301 km away at 8:15am
the same day. Find correct to one decimal place, the average speed of the aircraft in km/h.

Solution

Given, total distance = 2,301km

Total time = 4 hours 15 minutes
= 415
60 hours
17
= 4h

𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑑
But Average Speed = 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑘𝑒𝑛
2,301
= 17⁄
4
2301×4
= 17
= 541.41km/h
= 541.4km/h
EXPRESSIONS

LESSON OVERVIEW
In this lesson, we shall look at:

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to
Understand vocabulary related to algebraic expressions
Translate verbal phrases into algebraic expressions
Evaluate expressions for different values of the variables

EXPRESSIONS
An algebraic expression is a combination of constant and literals (variables) connected by the signs
of fundamental operations. For example, 2x +3, xy-7, x+y-4, etc are algebraic expressions.

Types of Algebraic Expressions

𝑥𝑦
Monomial is an algebraic expression of one term. Example are: 3xy, , 4𝑥𝑦 2 , etc
2

Binomial is an algebraic expression of two terms. Examples are x + y, 5x-3, etc

Trinomial is an algebraic expression of three terms. For example: 2𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 − 1, 𝑒𝑡𝑐

Algebraic Expression Example

Look for the keywords when dealing with algebraic expressions. They hint at what operation must
be done to the variables and numbers.

Five more than a number

more than means addition and a number means x, so this is the same as 5 + x or x + 5
A number less than 7

less than means subtraction, and a number means x, so the algebraic expression for this is 7-x.
Note that for "less than" the number before the phrase will be subtracted from the number after it.
Three times a number

times means multiplication, a number means x, so algebraic expression for this is 3x

One ticket is priced at $9, how much are n tickets?

for sales and revenues, multiplying the price by the number of items works: 9n
Fraction of a whole; if the meeting normally has m attendees and today only 3/4 attended

multiply the fraction by the full number: (3/4)m attendees

The whole pizza costs $24 with n slices. How much is a slice?

divide $24 by n number of slices.

Combining like terms

Worked Example 1

Find an equivalent expression for 2(2𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 2 𝑦 2 − 4𝑦 2 ) − (𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 2 𝑦 2 − 10𝑦 2 )

Solution

2(2𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 2 𝑦 2 − 4𝑦 2 ) − (𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 2 𝑦 2 − 10𝑦 2 )

= (4𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 2 𝑦 2 − 8𝑦 2 ) − (𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 2 𝑦 2 − 10𝑦 2 )

= 4𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 2 𝑦 2 − 8𝑦 2 − 𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 2 𝑦 2 + 10𝑦 2

= 3𝑥 2 − 11𝑥 2 𝑦 2 + 2𝑦 2

Worked Example 2
Find an equivalent expression for 3(𝑥 2 + 4𝑥𝑦 2 − 2𝑦) + (2𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 2 𝑦 − 10𝑦 2 )

Expansion and factoring

Worked Example 3
Find an equivalent expression for 3(𝑥 − 7)(2𝑥 − 4)
Solution
3(𝑥 − 7)(2𝑥 − 4)
= (3𝑥 − 21)(2𝑥 − 4)
= 6𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 − 24𝑥 + 84
= 6𝑥 2 − 36𝑥 + 84

Worked Example 4
Find an equivalent expression for 5(𝑥 2 + 4)(3𝑥 − 1)

Worked Example 5
Expand the following expressions

1) (𝑥 + 𝑦) 2
2) (𝑥 − 𝑦) 2
3) 𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2
Solution

1) (𝑥 + 𝑦) 2 = 𝑥 2 + 2𝑥𝑦 + 𝑦 2
2) (𝑥 − 𝑦) 2 = 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥𝑦 + 𝑦 2
3) 𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 = (𝑥 + 𝑦)(𝑥 − 𝑦)

Worked Example 6
Find an equivalent expression for 2𝑥 2 − 2𝑦 2
Solution
2𝑥 − 2𝑦 2 = 2(𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 )
2

= 2(𝑥 + 𝑦)(𝑥 − 𝑦)

Worked Example 7

Find an equivalent expression for 9𝑥 2 − 4𝑦 2

Solution
9𝑥 2 − 4𝑦 2 = 32 𝑥 2 − 22 𝑦 2
= (3𝑥)2 − (2𝑦)2
= (3𝑥 + 2𝑦)(3𝑥 − 2𝑦)

Worked Example 8

Find an equivalent expression for 16𝑥 4 − 8𝑥 2 𝑦 2 + 𝑦 4

Solution

16𝑥 4 − 8𝑥 2 𝑦 2 + 𝑦 4 = 16𝑥 4 − 4𝑥 2 𝑦 2 − 4𝑥 2 𝑦 2 + 𝑦 4 𝑥 2
= 4𝑥 2 (4𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 ) − 𝑦 2 (4𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 )
= (4𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 )(4𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 )
= (4𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 )2

Combining fractions
Worked Example 9
3 5
Find an equivalent expression for 𝑥+3 − 𝑥−4

Solution
 3 5 3(𝑥 − 4) − 5(𝑥 + 3)
− =
𝑥+3 𝑥−4 (𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 − 4)
3𝑥 − 12 − 5𝑥 − 15
=
(𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 − 4)
−2𝑥 − 27
=
(𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 − 4)

Worked Example 10
𝑥
If 𝑥 > 2, find an equivalent fraction to 3 1
+
𝑥+2 𝑥−2

Solution
3 1 3(𝑥 − 2) + 1(𝑥 + 2)
+ =
𝑥+2 𝑥−2 (𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 2)
3𝑥 − 6 + 𝑥 + 2
=
(𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 2)
4𝑥 − 4
=
(𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 2)
𝑥 𝑥
=
3 1 4𝑥 − 4
𝑥+2+𝑥−2 (𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 2)
𝑥 (𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 2)
= ×
1 4𝑥 − 4
𝑥(𝑥+2)(𝑥−2)
= 4𝑥−4

Worked Example 11
𝑥+62
Find an equivalent expression for 4
Solution
𝑥 + 62 𝑥 62
= +
4 4 4
𝑥 31
= +
4 2

Note that whiles you can split up the numerators of fractions, you cannot do so with denominators.
Hence,
4 4 4
≠ +
𝑥 + 64 𝑥 64

Simplify Expressions with Exponents

5𝑥 2 𝑦 9 5 𝑥2 𝑦9 1
= × × = 3𝑥 2
15𝑦 9 𝑥 4 15 𝑥4 𝑦9

EXPONENTS AND RADICALS

LESSON OVERVIEW
In this lesson, we shall look at:
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to
➢ Understand Exponents

Equations are mathematical expressions which involve the equal sign (=).
For example 3𝑥 = 12 and 8𝑥 − 2 = 7, etc.

LINEAR EQUATION AND NON-LINEAR

An equation is said to be linear if and only if the exponent on the entire variable(s) in the equation
is one. Also when some of the variables are multiplying others in an equation, then the equation is
said to be a non-linear.

Examples of linear and Non-linear equations.

Linear Equations
(1) 3𝑥– 𝑦 + 12 = 0
1
(2) 𝑦 + 𝑥−6=0
2
Non-Linear Equations
(1) x – 4y 2 + 1 = 0
2x+y
(2) + 4y = 0
x
 (3) xy + 4x = 3

Rules for finding the truth set / solution set of a linear equation.
Steps
(1) Remove fractions if there are any by multiplying through by the LCM.
(2) Remove brackets.
(3) Group like terms.
(4) Simplify both sides of the equation and
(5) Solve for the variable.

Find the truth set of the equations

a. 3(x + 1) = 4(x – 1)
b. 3(2x – 1) + 4 = 5(x + 4) + 2

Solution
a. 3(x + 1) = 4(x – 1)
⇒3x + 3 = 4x – 4
⇒3x – 4x = -4 – 3
⇒-x = -7
∴ x=7
the truth set is { x: x = 7}

b. 3(2x – 1) + 4 = 5(x + 4) + 2
⇒6x – 3 + 4 = 5x + 20 + 2
⇒6x + 1 = 5x + 22
⇒6x – 5x = 22 – 1
⇒x = 21
the truth set is { x: x = 21}

2. Find the truth set of the equations:

5x−2 3𝑥+2
(a) =
4 2
2a−1 a−2
(b) − =1
3 4

Solution
5x−2 3𝑥+2
(a) =
4 2
5x − 2 3x + 2
⇒ 4( ) = 4( )
4 2
⇒ 1(5𝑥 − 2) = 2(3𝑥 + 2)
⇒ 5𝑥 − 2 = 6𝑥 + 4
⇒ 5𝑥 − 6𝑥 = 4 + 2
⇒ −𝑥 = 6
⇒ 𝑥 = −6
∴ The truth set is {𝑥 ∶ 𝑥 = −6}

2a−1 a−2
(b) − =1
3 4
2𝑎 − 1 𝑎−2
⇒ 12 ( ) − 12 ( ) = 12 × 1
3 4
⇒ 4(2a−1) −3(a−2) = 12
⇒ 8a −4 −3a+6 = 12
⇒ 5a = 12−2
5a 10
⇒ =
5 5
∴a=2
∴The truth set is {a : a = 2}

Worked examples
1. Solve the equations
2 1
(a) 3 x + 4 𝑥 = 5
(b) 2𝑥 − 4 { 𝑥 − 2 [(2𝑥 + 3(𝑥 + 1)] + 2} = 35
2 1
(c) (3y − 1) − (y + 2) =
3 3

Solution
2 1
(a) 3 x + x=5
4
2 1
⇒ 12 ( x) + ( x) 12 = 5 × 12
3 4
⇒ 4(2𝑥) + 3 (𝑥) = 60
⇒ 8𝑥 + 3𝑥 = 60
11x 60
⇒ =
11 11
5
⇒𝑥=5
11

(b) 2𝑥 − 4 { 𝑥 − 2 [(2𝑥 + 3(𝑥 + 1)] + 2} = 35

⇒ 2𝑥 − 4 {𝑥 − 2 [2𝑥 + 3𝑥 + 3] + 2} = 35
⇒ 2𝑥 − 4 {𝑥 − 4𝑥 − 6𝑥 − 6 + 2} = 35
⇒ 2𝑥 − 4𝑥 + 16𝑥 + 24𝑥 + 24 − 8 = 35
⇒ −2𝑥 + 40𝑥 + 16 = 35
⇒ 38𝑥 = 35 −16
 3𝑥 19
⇒ =
3 38
1
⇒𝑥=
2

2 1
(c) 3 (3y − 1) − (y + 2) = 3
2 1
⇒ 3 × (3𝑦 − 1) − (𝑦 + 2)3 = × 3
3 3
⇒ 2 (3𝑦 − 1) − (𝑦 + 2)3 = 1
⇒ 6𝑦 − 2 − 3𝑦 + 6 = 1
⇒3y – 8 = 1
⇒3y = 1 + 8
3y 9
⇒ =
3 3
∴y=3
EQUATIONS INVOLVING SQUARE AND SQUARE ROOTS
When you are squaring equations to remove a square root, square both sides of the equation and
not the individual elements or numbers.
Example 1
If 𝑥 > 0 and 𝑏 > 0, the equation √𝑥𝑦 = 𝑥 − 𝑦 is equivalent to
a) 𝑥𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2
b) 𝑥𝑦 = 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2
c) 2𝑥𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2
d) 3𝑥𝑦 = 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2

Solution
√𝑥𝑦 = 𝑥 − 𝑦
2
⇒ (√𝑥𝑦) = (𝑥 − 𝑦)2
⇒ 𝑥𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥𝑦 + 𝑦 2
⇒ 𝑥𝑦 + 2𝑥𝑦 = 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2
⇒ 3𝑥𝑦 = 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2
Hence, the correct answer is D

Example 2
If (𝑥 + 3)2 = 121, what is the sume of the two possible values of
𝑥?
Solution
(𝑥 + 3)2 = 121
⇒ √(𝑥 + 3)2 = ±√121
⇒ 𝑥 + 3 = ±11
Either
⇒ 𝑥 + 3 = 11
⇒ 𝑥 = 11 − 3
⇒𝑥= 8
Or
𝑥 + 3 = −11
⇒ 𝑥 = −11 − 3
⇒ 𝑥 = −14
Hence, the sum is
8 + (−14) = −6

Example 2
5 25
If 3 𝑥 = 4 , find the value of 𝑥.
Solution
5 25
𝑥=
3 4
4(5𝑥) = 3(25)
20𝑥 = 75
20𝑥 75
=
20 20
15
𝑥=
4
Example 3
3 7
− = 0, what is the value of 𝑥?
𝑥+1 𝑥+5
Solution
3 7
− =0
𝑥+1 𝑥+5
3 7
=
𝑥+1 𝑥+5

3(𝑥 + 5) = 7(𝑥 + 1)
3𝑥 + 15 = 7𝑥 + 7
3𝑥 − 7𝑥 = 7 − 15
−4𝑥 = −8
𝑥=4

Example 4
𝑥
If 𝑦 = 4𝑥+2𝑧, express 𝑥in terms of 𝑦 and 𝑧.
Solution
𝑥
𝑦=
4𝑥 + 2𝑧
𝑦(4𝑥 + 2𝑧) = 𝑥
4𝑥𝑦 + 2𝑦𝑧 = 𝑥
4𝑥𝑦 − 𝑥 = −2𝑦𝑧
𝑥(4𝑦 − 1) = −2𝑦𝑧
𝑥(4𝑦 − 1) = −2𝑦𝑧
𝑥(4𝑦 − 1) −2𝑦𝑧
=
4𝑦 − 1 4𝑦 − 1
−2𝑦𝑧
𝑥=
4𝑦 − 1

Example 5
1
𝑦√𝑦−
3 2 𝑦
In the equation 𝑦 + 𝑦 + 𝑦 = 1 , find 𝑥 in terms of y.
𝑥(𝑦+ )
𝑦
Solution

1
𝑦√𝑦 − 𝑦
𝑦3 + 𝑦2 + 𝑦 =
1
𝑥 (𝑦 + 𝑦)

1 1
𝑥 (𝑦 + ) (𝑦 3 + 𝑦 2 + 𝑦) = 𝑦√𝑦 −
𝑦 𝑦
1 1
𝑥 (𝑦 + 𝑦) (𝑦 3 + 𝑦 2 + 𝑦) 𝑦√𝑦 − 𝑦
=
1 3 2 1
(𝑦 + 𝑦) (𝑦 + 𝑦 + 𝑦) (𝑦 + 𝑦) (𝑦 3 + 𝑦 2 + 𝑦)
1
𝑦√𝑦 − 𝑦
𝑥=
1
(𝑦 + 𝑦) (𝑦 3 + 𝑦 2 + 𝑦)

Example 6
If 𝑥 > 0, for what real value of 𝑦 is the equation (𝑥 + 1)2 + 5(𝑥 + 1) − 24 = 0
Solution
(𝑥 + 1)2 + 5(𝑥 + 1) − 24 = 0
Let (𝑥 + 1) be treated as one unit say 𝑦
𝑦 2 + 5𝑦 − 24 = 0
𝑦 2 + 8𝑦 − 3𝑦 − 24 = 0
𝑦(𝑦 + 8) − 3(𝑦 + 8) = 0
(𝑦 + 8)(𝑦 − 3) = 0
(𝑥 + 1 + 8)(𝑥 + 1 − 3) = 0
(𝑥 + 9)(𝑥 − 2) = 0
𝑥 = −9 𝑜𝑟 2
But, since 𝑥 > 0, then 𝑥 = 2
Example 7
𝑚 𝑛
If 𝑛 = 5, what is the value of 3𝑚?
Solution
𝑚
=5
𝑛
𝑛 1
=
𝑚 5

Divide both sides by 3

𝑛 1
÷3= ÷3
𝑚 5
𝑛 1 1 1
× = ×
𝑚 3 5 3
𝑛 1
=
3𝑚 15

Example 8
If 𝑦 𝑖𝑠 𝑎𝑛 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑔𝑒𝑟, 𝑤ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑖𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑠𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑦 2 (𝑦 3 − 4) = 4𝑦

Solution
Answer 2

END OF LESSON
3 2
(√ ) ( ) ((2) ) (𝑥) 𝑦2 ×
><←↑÷× ~ ≠= ∞ ⇒⇐ ±
Solution

EXERCISE 1

Example 6