Question:medium

If \(p^2+q^2-29=2pq-20=52-2pq\) , then the difference between the maximum and minimum possible value of \((p^3-q^3 ) \)is

Updated On: Jan 13, 2026
  • 486
  • 378
  • 243
  • 189
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Given:
\( 2pq - 20 = 52 - 2pq \)

\( \Rightarrow 4pq = 72 \)
\( \Rightarrow pq = 18 \)   ...... (1)

Consider:

\( p^2 + q^2 - 29 = 2pq - 20 \)
\( \Rightarrow p^2 + q^2 - 2pq = 9 \)
\( \Rightarrow (p - q)^2 = 9 \)
\( \Rightarrow p - q = \pm 3 \)

From (1), \( pq = 18 \).

Using the identity \( p^2 + q^2 = 2pq + 9 \):
\( \Rightarrow p^2 + q^2 = 2(18) + 9 = 36 + 9 = 45 \).

Using the identity \( p^3 - q^3 = (p - q)(p^2 + pq + q^2) \):
\( p^2 + q^2 = 45 \) and \( pq = 18 \), so \( p^2 + pq + q^2 = 45 + 18 = 63 \).

Case 1: \( p - q = 3 \)

\( p^3 - q^3 = 3 \cdot 63 = 189 \).

Case 2: \( p - q = -3 \)

\( p^3 - q^3 = (-3) \cdot 63 = -189 \).

Difference between the two values:

\( 189 - (-189) = 189 + 189 = \mathbf{378} \).

Final Answer: (B) 378

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