Rectangle M has sides (x+4) cm and (7-x) cm; right triangle N has legs x cm and (3x+1) cm. Given the area of M is twice the area of N, this leads to the equation 2x²-x-14=0. Solve this equation, giving the positive root correct to 3 significant figures.

Model answer

2.91

Also accepted: 2,91

Explanation: x=(1+√113)/4=2,91 (3 s.f.).

Derived from ZIMSEC Mathematics Paper 2, June 1999, Q7

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