Parameter Math Example 5

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Example 5

medium
The quadratic f(x)=x2−px+4f(x) = x^2 - px + 4 has a zero at x=1x = 1. Find pp.

Solution

  1. 1
    Substitute: f(1)=1−p+4=0f(1) = 1 - p + 4 = 0, so 5−p=05 - p = 0.
  2. 2
    p=5p = 5.

Answer

p=5p = 5
Knowing a zero of the function lets us find the parameter by substituting and solving.

About Parameter

A parameter is a quantity in a mathematical expression that remains constant for a particular case but can change between cases. For example, in y = mx + b, the slope m and intercept b are parameters — each choice of m and b gives a different line.

Learn more about Parameter →

More Parameter Examples

Example 1 medium

In the family of lines [formula], what role does [formula] play?

Example 2 hard

For what value of the parameter [formula] does [formula] have the solution [formula]?

Example 3 medium

In the family of lines [formula], find the slope when the line passes through [formula].

Example 4 easy

In [formula], is [formula] a variable or a parameter?

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