Find K Values: Solve Equations w/ One Solution | Help

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on finding values of k that ensure two quadratic equations have exactly one solution. Participants explore the conditions under which the discriminant of the equations equals zero, indicating a perfect square scenario. The equations in question are $4x^2+Kx+25=0$ and $Kx^2+36x+K=0$.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that for the equations to have exactly one solution, the discriminant must equal zero, expressed as $B^2 - 4AC = 0$.
  • Another participant calculates the discriminant for the first equation, leading to the equation $K^2 - 4(1)(25) = 0$.
  • There is a correction regarding the value of A in the discriminant formula, with one participant noting that A should be 4, not 1.
  • Subsequent calculations lead to a proposed solution of $K = \pm 10\sqrt{2}$, which is later corrected to $K = \pm 20$ after addressing the discriminant properly.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express uncertainty and disagreement regarding the correct application of the discriminant formula and the values of k. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the final values for k, as corrections and alternative calculations are presented.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved issues regarding the application of the discriminant, particularly the values assigned to A, B, and C in the equations. The calculations depend on these definitions and assumptions, which have been challenged during the discussion.

Drain Brain
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Find all values of k that ensure that the given equation has
exactly one solution.

1. $4x^2+Kx+25=0$
2.$Kx^2+36x+K=0$

what's the first step to solve these. Help me get started.

Regards
 
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Drain Brain said:
Find all values of k that ensure that the given equation has
exactly one solution.

1. $4x^2+Kx+25=0$
2.$Kx^2+36x+K=0$

what's the first step to solve these. Help me get started.

Regards

for this to have exactly one solution we must have both solutions to be same or it has to be a perfect square

that is in $Ax^2 + Bx + C = 0$ we must have $B^2= 4 AC$

in $4x^2+Kx+25=0$ A = 4, B = K and C = 25
 
Oh. I see.

$B^2-4ac=0$

then,

$K^2-4(1)(25)=0$

$K^2=100$

$K=\pm\sqrt{10}$ ---> is this correct?
 
Drain Brain said:
$B^2-4ac=0$

then,

$K^2-4(1)(25)=0$
Why is 4 multiplied by 1?
 
Drain Brain said:
Oh. I see.

$B^2-4ac=0$

then,

$K^2-4(1)(25)=0$

$K^2=100$

$K=\pm\sqrt{10}$ ---> is this correct?

No , A = 4 but you have taken A = 1
 
Evgeny.Makarov said:
Why is 4 multiplied by 1?

I see missed out $a=4$ the answer should be $\pm10\sqrt{2}$
 
Drain Brain said:
I see missed out $a=4$ the answer should be $\pm10\sqrt{2}$

you have to take square root of 400 that is + or - 20 . why square root of 2 ?
 
kaliprasad said:
you have to take square root of 400 that is + or - 20 . why square root of 2 ?

my bad! It seems that I got rusty in noticing little things. Please bear with me.

$K^2-4(4)(25)=0$

$K^2=400$

$K=\pm 20$
 
Drain Brain said:
$K=\pm 20$
Now it's correct.
 

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