Math Problem Statement

What is the value of a if (x+2) is a factor of the polynomial 4x^3-3x^2+2a+6?

Solution

If (x+2)(x+2) is a factor of the polynomial 4x33x2+2a+64x^3 - 3x^2 + 2a + 6, then substituting x=2x = -2 should make the polynomial equal to zero. This is because any factor of a polynomial will satisfy f(c)=0f(c) = 0, where cc is the root.

Let's set up the polynomial function as:

f(x)=4x33x2+2a+6.f(x) = 4x^3 - 3x^2 + 2a + 6.

Now, substitute x=2x = -2 and set f(2)=0f(-2) = 0:

f(2)=4(2)33(2)2+2a+6=0.f(-2) = 4(-2)^3 - 3(-2)^2 + 2a + 6 = 0.

Calculate each term:

4(2)3=4(8)=32,4(-2)^3 = 4(-8) = -32, 3(2)2=3(4)=12,-3(-2)^2 = -3(4) = -12, 2a=2a,2a = 2a, 6=6.6 = 6.

Substitute these values:

3212+2a+6=0.-32 - 12 + 2a + 6 = 0.

Simplify:

38+2a=0.-38 + 2a = 0.

Solve for aa:

2a=38,2a = 38, a=19.a = 19.

Therefore, the value of aa is:

19.\boxed{19}.

Let me know if you'd like a detailed explanation or have any questions!

Relative Questions

  1. How do you check if a polynomial is divisible by a linear factor?
  2. What is the Remainder Theorem and how is it used in factorization?
  3. Can a polynomial have more than one linear factor?
  4. What are synthetic division and long division methods for polynomials?
  5. How do you find the roots of a cubic polynomial?

Tip: When checking if a polynomial has a particular linear factor, always substitute the root of the factor into the polynomial and verify if it results in zero.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Polynomials
Factor Theorem

Formulas

Factor Theorem: If (x + c) is a factor of f(x), then f(-c) = 0

Theorems

Factor Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12