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\(x^3+ax^2+bx-64 = 0\)
let the root = k
product of roots = -(-64)/1 = 64
since the roots are the same , \(k^3 = 64 ; k = 4\)

sum of root = -a/1
a = -12

putting the value of x in the equation ,
64 + 16a + 4b = 64
16a+4b = 0
4a + b = 0
b = -4a = 48
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I got A for the answer.

x3+ax2+bx=64
<=> x^3 + ax^2 + bx - 64 = 0

Vieta's theorem
x1*x2*x3 = -(-64)/1

Since there is only 1 value of x (x1, x2 and x3 are the same), meaning x^3 = 64 => x=4

x1x2 +x2x3 + x3x1 = b/1
or 4*4 + 4*4 +4 *4 = 16 + 16 + 16 = 48
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gmatbusters
If a and b are constants, and the equation \(x^3 +ax^2 +bx = 64\) has precisely one solution for x, what is the value of b?
A) 48
B) 16
C) 24
D) -16
E) -67

Weekly Quant Quiz #6 Question No 9


Hello Math experts!

Could someone please explain to me how to use the Viete's theorem in this kind of equation?

Which is a and which is b?

\(x^3 +ax^2 +bx = 64\)

Kind regards!
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