Question
Question: If a + b + c = 0, then the quadratic equation 3a*x*<sup>2</sup> + 2b*x* + c = 0 has –...
If a + b + c = 0, then the quadratic equation 3ax2 + 2bx + c = 0 has –
A
At least one root in [0, 1]
B
One root in [2, 3] and other is [–2, –1]
C
Imaginary roots
D
None of these
Answer
At least one root in 0,1
Explanation
Solution
Let (x) = ax3 + bx2 + cx, x Ī [0, 1]. Since is a polynomial function, is differentiable on the whole real line and in particular on [0, 1].
Also, (0) = 0 and (1) = a + b + c = 0.
Thus, all the conditions in the hypothesis of the Rolle’s
theorem are satisfied by the Rolle’s theorem there exists at
least one a Ī (0, 1) such that ¢(a) = 0
But ¢(x) = 3ax2 + 2bx + c and (1) = a + b + c = 0
Hence, 3ax2 + 2bx + c = 0 has a root in [0, 1].