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smc

algebra senior

Problem

A binary operation has the properties that and that for all nonzero real numbers and . (Here represents multiplication). The solution to the equation can be written as , where and are relatively prime positive integers. What is
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
Solution
We see that , and think of division. Testing, we see that the first condition is satisfied, because . Therefore, division can be the operation . Solving the equation, so the answer is .
Final answer
A