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

3750 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do you find the maximum/minimum value of an equation?


How can I find the normal to a curve at a given point?


A cubic polynomial has the form p(z)=z^3+bz^2+cz+d, z is Complex and b, c, d are Real. Given that a solution of p(z)=0 is z1=3-2i and that p(-2)=0, find the values of b, c and d.


A ball is thrown in the air. The height of the ball at time t is given by: h=5+4t-2t^2. What is its maximum height? At what time does the ball reach this height?


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning