If the difference between the roots of the equation is 2 write the values of a.
given x2 + ax + 8 = 0 and α – β = 2
Also from given equation α β = 8
As α – β = 2
Then
α2 - 2 α – 8 =0
(α-4) (α + 2)=0
α = 4 and α = -2
if α = 4 then substituting it in α – β = 2 we get ,
β = 2
from the given equation,
sum of roots = -a
α + β = - a
- a = 4+2
a = -6
if α = - 2 then substituting it in α – β = 2 we get ,
β = - 4
then sum of roots α + β = - a
a = 6
therefore a = ± 6.