Let f(x) = 2x^3 + x^2 - 5x + c. Given that f(1) = 0 find the values of c.

In order to solve this question we simply must substitute x=1 into f(x).

If we carry out this substitution we see that

f(1) = 2(1^3) + (1^3) -5(1) + c = 2(1) + (1) -5(1) + c = 2 + 1  - 5 + c = 3 - 5 + c = c - 2.

We also know from the question provided that f(1) = 0. We can therefore match this condition with the substitution that we have just made which allows us to make the following statement. f(1) = c - 2 = 0.

We can then rearrange this equation in order to get an expression for c by adding 2 to both sides, therefore c = 2.

CL
Answered by Calum L. Maths tutor

3851 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Show that (x-2) is a factor of 3x^3 -8x^2 +3x+2


The line AB has equation 5x+3y+3=0. It is parallel to a line with equation y=mx+7. What is m?


The first term of an arithmetic series is a and the common difference is d. The 12th term is 66.5 and the 19th term is 98. Write down two equations in a and d then solve these simultaneous equations to find a and d.


Find the gradient of the equation y=e^2x.ln(4x^2) when x=5.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning