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Problem 15 - Entrance Test

If x - y = 4 and xy = 21, find the value of x^2 + y^2.

Correct: C

We know the identity (x-y)^2 = x^2 + y^2 - 2xy. We are given x - y = 4 and xy = 21. Substitute these values into the identity: (4)^2 = x^2 + y^2 - 2(21) 16 = x^2 + y^2 - 42 x^2 + y^2 = 16 + 42 x^2 + y^2 = 58.