Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Algebra

Algebra — practice question

The polynomial $p(x)$ is given by $p(x)=x^3+2x+a$, with $a$ a constant.
(i)[2]

If $(x + 2)$ is a factor of $p(x)$, determine the value of $a$.

(ii)[5]

For this value of $a$, determine the quotient obtained when $p(x)$ is divided by $(x + 2)$ and then show that $p(x) = 0$ has exactly one real root.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 7-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Put in $-2$ and make it equal to zero, or divide and set the remainder equal to zero

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