Question

Find the value of (a) for which (x-2) is a factor of 3x^3 + ax^2 + x - 2

Answer 1

\[3x^3 + ax^2 + x - 2=(x-2)(Ax^2+Bx+C)\]

Answer 2

3x^3+ax^2+x-2=0
Since x-2 is a factor we can apply x=2 in the equation above.
therefore
3(2^3)+a(2^2)+2-2=0
3(8)+4a=0
4a=-24
a=-6

Answer 3

Ah, Ok. Thanks :)

Answer 4

You are welcome.