Math Problem Statement

Find the value of p, if 1/2 is a root of the quadratic equation x^2 + px - 5/4 = 0.

Solution

The question shown in the image is:

Find the value of pp, if 12\frac{1}{2} is a root of the quadratic equation: x2+px54=0x^2 + px - \frac{5}{4} = 0

Solution:

Since 12\frac{1}{2} is a root of the quadratic equation, it must satisfy the equation. Therefore, substitute x=12x = \frac{1}{2} into the equation:

(12)2+p(12)54=0\left(\frac{1}{2}\right)^2 + p\left(\frac{1}{2}\right) - \frac{5}{4} = 0

  1. Calculate (12)2\left(\frac{1}{2}\right)^2:

(12)2=14\left(\frac{1}{2}\right)^2 = \frac{1}{4}

  1. Substitute into the equation:

14+p254=0\frac{1}{4} + \frac{p}{2} - \frac{5}{4} = 0

  1. Combine like terms:

1454+p2=0\frac{1}{4} - \frac{5}{4} + \frac{p}{2} = 0

44+p2=0-\frac{4}{4} + \frac{p}{2} = 0

1+p2=0-1 + \frac{p}{2} = 0

  1. Solve for pp:

p2=1\frac{p}{2} = 1

p=2p = 2

Final Answer: p=2p = 2

Would you like more details or have any further questions?

Here are 5 related questions to expand on this topic:

  1. How do you find the other root of the quadratic equation after solving for pp?
  2. Can we derive the quadratic formula from this equation?
  3. What are the possible values of pp if the equation has complex roots?
  4. How do we determine whether the quadratic equation has real or imaginary roots?
  5. How can you solve a quadratic equation using the factorization method?

Tip: When solving quadratic equations, always check whether the equation can be factored before using more complex methods like completing the square or the quadratic formula.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Quadratic Equations
Roots of Equations

Formulas

Quadratic equation formula: ax^2 + bx + c = 0
Root substitution: x = r for r as a root

Theorems

Solution of quadratic equations

Suitable Grade Level

Grade 10-12