Given that $z = 3 + i$ is a root of $z^2 + pz + q = 0$, where $p$ and $q$ are real, what are the values of $p$ and $q$? - HSC - SSCE Mathematics Extension 2 - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 2
Given that $z = 3 + i$ is a root of $z^2 + pz + q = 0$, where $p$ and $q$ are real, what are the values of $p$ and $q$?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Given that $z = 3 + i$ is a root of $z^2 + pz + q = 0$, where $p$ and $q$ are real, what are the values of $p$ and $q$? - HSC - SSCE Mathematics Extension 2 - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Sub-part a: Identify the properties of the root
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Since z=3+i is a complex root, its conjugate z∗=3−i must also be a root of the equation. For the quadratic equation z2+pz+q=0, the sum and product of the roots can be used to find values for p and q.
Step 2
Sub-part b: Calculate the sum of the roots
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The sum of the roots is given by:
z+z∗=(3+i)+(3−i)=6
This implies:
ightarrow p = -6$$
Step 3
Sub-part c: Calculate the product of the roots
96%
101 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The product of the roots is given by:
zimesz∗=(3+i)(3−i)=32−i2=9+1=10
This implies:
q=10
Step 4
Final values of p and q
98%
120 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!