Solution of Quadratic Equation

Solutions: Let us say, the present age of Suprim is x years.

Three years ago, Suprim’s age was (x – 3) years.

Five years after, his age will be (x + 5) years.

Given, the sum of the reciprocals of Suprim’s ages 3 years ago and after 5 years is equal to 1/3.

∴ 1/x-3 + 1/x-5 = 1/3

(x+5+x-3)/(x-3)(x+5) = 1/3

(2x+2)/(x-3)(x+5) = 1/3

⇒ 3(2x + 2) = (x-3)(x+5)

⇒ 6x + 6 = x² + 2x – 15

⇒ x² – 4x – 21 = 0

⇒ x² – 7x + 3x – 21 = 0

⇒ x(x – 7) + 3(x – 7) = 0

⇒ (x – 7)(x + 3) = 0

⇒ x = 7, -3

As we know, age cannot be negative.

Therefore, Suprim’s present age is 7 years