Question

Find the value of k if (x – 1) is a factor of the polynomial P(x) = x2 + kx + 2.

Answer 1

Given polynomial P(x) = x2 + kx + 2

given factor = (x – 1)

By remainder theorem x – 1 = 0

x = 1

remainder P(1) = 0

⇒ (1)2 + k(1) + 2 = 0

k + 3 = 0

k = – 3