In the question there are two factors (x – 2) and (x + 3) of expression x3 + ax2 + bx – 12, and we have been asked to find the value of constant a and b.
ML Aggarwal(avichal publication), factorisation, chapter 6, question no 22
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Given,
f(x)=x3+ax2+bx–12
Let us assume
x−2=0 and x+3=0
⇒x=2 and x=−3
Also given that, (x−2) and (x+3) are factors of f(x)
∴ By factor theorem, f(2)=0 and f(−3)=0
Now, f(2)=0
⇒23+a(2)2+b(2)−12=0
⇒8+4a+2b−12=0
⇒4a+2b−4=0
Dividing te equation by 2
⇒2a+b−2=0...(i)
And, f(−3)=0
⇒(−3)3+a(−3)2+b(−3)−12=0
⇒−27+9a−3b−12=0
⇒9a−3b−39=0
Dividing the equation by 3
⇒3a–b=13...(ii)
Now, adding equation (i) and equation (ii) we get,
(2a+b)+(3a−b)=2+13
⇒2a+3a+b−b=15
⇒5a=15
⇒a=515=3
Substituting this value of a in equation (i)
⇒2a+b=2
⇒2(3)+b=2
⇒6+b=2
⇒b=2−6
⇒b=−4
Hence, a=3 and b=−4