16Hit1600
Advanced MathEasy–MediumCoefficient from a known root

Advanced Math practice question

The equation x² + bx + 12 = 0 has x = 3 as one of its solutions, where b is a constant. What is the value of b?

Answer: -7

9 + 3b + 12 = 0 gives 3b = −21, so b = −7.

Common wrong answers

If you answered 7
7 has the sign wrong.
If you answered -4
−4 is the other root, not b.
If you answered -21
−21 is 3b.

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