If the quadratic equation \(x^2+kx+16=0\) has equal roots, what are the possible values of \(k\)?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: 8, -8
For equal roots, the discriminant must be zero. Here, \(a=1\), \(b=k\), and \(c=16\). Thus, \(b^2-4ac=0\) gives \(k^2-4(1)(16)=0\), so \(k^2-64=0\). Therefore, \(k=8\) or \(k=-8\). For option B, the discriminant would not be zero. Exam tip: For equal roots of a quadratic equation, directly use \(b^2-4ac=0\).
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
8, -8
Why is this the correct answer?
For equal roots, the discriminant must be zero. Here, \(a=1\), \(b=k\), and \(c=16\). Thus, \(b^2-4ac=0\) gives \(k^2-4(1)(16)=0\), so \(k^2-64=0\). Therefore, \(k=8\) or \(k=-8\). For option B, the discriminant would not be zero. Exam tip: For equal roots of a quadratic equation, directly use \(b^2-4ac=0\).
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Mathematics question. Chapter: Quadratic Equations. Topic: Roots of a Quadratic Equation.
Student feedback
Was this question useful?
👍 0 Helpful 👎 0 Not helpful
Yes 0% No 0%
0 responsesStudent Reviews
No published reviews yet.
