Thread: If p+q=3 and pq=2, find 1/p^2 + 1/q^2.

Hi, i know this is probably a very simple problem to solve but i just cant figure it out.


Question: if p+q=3 and pq=2, find the value of 1/p(squared) + 1/q(squared) without finding the values of p and q.



If anyone could help me I would be very happy. Please let me know.


Jessica

Find:

first.

Then, it'll be easier.

now the numerator can be written as and the denominator is

after this you should be able to do this by yourself.

but isnt (p+q)2 : p(squared)+ 2pq + q(squared) ? :S

Originally Posted by Sambit

now the numerator can be written as and the denominator is

after this you should be able to do this by yourself.

Thank you, helped alot.