You may also like

problem icon

The Root of the Problem

Find the sum of this series of surds.

problem icon

Fit for Photocopying

Explore the relationships between different paper sizes.

Surds

Age 14 to 16 Challenge Level:

Find the exact values of $x$, $y$ and $a$ satisfying the following system of equations:
\begin{align}
\frac{1}{a+1}&=a-1 \\
x+y&=2a \\
x&=ay
\end{align}


The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice.
Copyright © 1997 - 2018. University of Cambridge. All rights reserved.
NRICH is part of the family of activities in the Millennium Mathematics Project.