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mpx86
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Homework Statement
A functions is defined as f(x) = ax2 + bx + c, where a, b, c are real numbers. If f(3) = f(– 2) = 0, what is the value of f(0)?
Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
As function is 0 at 3, -2, therefore
9a + 3b + c=0 also,
4a -2 b + c=0
c=-6a or c= 6b
f(0)=c= 6a or -6b
So the answer depends on the value of a or b (a= -b)
However, the book states the following solution
f(x) = ax2 + bx + c and f(3) = f(– 2) = 0 implies that 3 and (–2) are the roots of f(x).
So, the quadratic equation is
f(x) = (x – 3)(x + 2) = x2 – x – 6 = 0.
Thus, f(0) = –6.
However, if the roots are 3, -2 to a quadratic equ. , then required equation should be
f(x) = k(x – 3)(x + 2)
Am I right?