PolynomialsStep 1 of 3
Question
If α and β are the zeroes of x² − 3x + k and 1/α + 1/β find k.
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α + β = ?
αβ = ?
1/α + 1/β = 3/4
What are α + β and αβ?
What you will learn
Use coefficient relationships for the sum and product of zeroes without solving the quadratic polynomial directly.
Common mistake to avoid
Students often reverse the signs in the zeroes formula or add the reciprocals without first using a common denominator.
Make this mistake visibleHelpful?