If f(x) = x^2 - 3x + 1, and f(a) = f(a+1), what is the value of a?

A -1

B 0

C 1

D 2

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

Set a² - 3a + 1 = (a+1)² - 3(a+1) + 1. This simplifies to a² - 3a + 1 = a² + 2a + 1 - 3a - 3 + 1. Further simplification yields -3a + 1 = -a - 1. Solving for a, we get 2a = 2, so a = 1.

💡 Why is C) the correct answer?

The correct answer to the question "If f(x) = x^2 - 3x + 1, and f(a) = f(a+1), what is the value of a?" is Option C: 1.

The other options — A) -1, B) 0, D) 2 — are incorrect for this GMAT Exam Prep question. As explained above: Set a² - 3a + 1 = (a+1)² - 3(a+1) + 1. This simplifies to a² - 3a + 1 = a² + 2a + 1 - 3a - 3 + 1. Further simplification yields -3a + 1 = -a - 1. Solving for a, we get 2a = 2, so a = 1.

📚 About This GMAT Exam Prep Practice Question

This 3-level GMAT Exam Prep question from the Quantitative Reasoning topic is part of BrainForge Quiz's free exam preparation library. Each question includes the correct answer and a detailed explanation to help you understand the underlying concept, not just memorize the answer.

How to use this page: Read the question above, consider all four options (A through D), then check the highlighted correct answer and explanation. For active timed practice, start a free GMAT Exam Prep practice test or use flashcards for spaced repetition review.

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If f(x) = x^2 - 3x + 1, and f(a) = f(a+1), what is the value of a?

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

📚 About This GMAT Exam Prep Practice Question

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