If (a + b) : (a - b) = 7 : 3, then find the ratio (a^2 + b^2) : (a^2 - b^2).
29:21
58:42
31:25
17:13
Correct answer: 29:21
Solution
Cross-multiplying gives 3(a+b) = 7(a-b), leading to a = 5b/2, so take a = 5k, b = 2k. Then a^2 + b^2 = 29k^2 and a^2 - b^2 = 21k^2, giving the ratio 29 : 21.