Question 74

Logical Reasoning Syllogism Easy

What is the value of \(x^2 + y^2\) if

Statement 1 is \(xy = 5\)
Statement 2 is \(x + y = 10\)

(A) The question can be answered using one statement alone
(B) The question can be answered using both statements together
(C) The question can be answered using either statement alone
(D) The question cannot be answered even using both statements together.
View Dynamic Solution & Explanation
Correct Solution: Option B

Step-by-step Solution:


Analysis of the Statements


The goal is to find a single, unique value for x² + y². Let's evaluate the sufficiency of each statement.




  • Statement 1 alone ("xy = 5"): This is not sufficient. For example, if x=1 and y=5, then x² + y² = 1 + 25 = 26. But if x=2 and y=2.5, then x² + y² = 4 + 6.25 = 10.25. Since we can get different values, this statement alone is not enough.


  • Statement 2 alone ("x + y = 10"): This is also not sufficient. For example, if x=1 and y=9, then x² + y² = 1 + 81 = 82. But if x=2 and y=8, then x² + y² = 4 + 64 = 68. Since we can get different values, this statement alone is not enough.


  • Both Statements Together: This is sufficient. We can use the well-known algebraic identity:

    (x + y)² = x² + 2xy + y²

    We can rearrange this formula to solve for our target expression:

    x² + y² = (x + y)² - 2xy

    Now, we can substitute the known values from both statements into this new equation:


    x² + y² = (10)² - 2(5)

    x² + y² = 100 - 10

    x² + y² = 90

    Since we can find one unique value, the statements together are sufficient.







Conclusion: Neither statement is sufficient on its own, but they are sufficient when used together.



Final Answer: The correct option is B.