# Thread: Finding value of a constant c in standard form of quadratic equation

1. ## Finding value of a constant c in standard form of quadratic equation

The equation is 16x^(2) -24x+c=0 What is c, given that one root is twice the other root?

I made one root r and the other root 2r. I know the -b/a and the c/a relationships (-b/a is the sum of the roots and c/a is the product). Thanks for the help.

2. ## Re: Finding value of a constant c in standard form of quadratic equation

Originally Posted by benny92000
The equation is 16x^(2) -24x+c=0 What is c, given that one root is twice the other root?
The sum of the roots is $\frac{24}{16}~.$

The product of the roots is $\frac{c}{16}~.$

3. ## Re: Finding value of a constant c in standard form of quadratic equation

Let's just think about this for a moment. If there are two roots, a and b, what does it look like? Where did those relationships come from?

(x-a)*(x-b) = x^2 - (a+b)x + ab

This should suggest that the produce to the roots IS the constant term! Use this to your advantage.

16x^2 - 24x + c = 16(x^2 - (3/2)x + (c/16))

Using your notation, r * 2r = c/16 and you are almost done.

Also, notice how the opposite of the coefficient on the linear term is the SUM of the roots!

Using your notation, r + 2r = 3/2.

Go ahead and build structures and explore the problem. There is just no need to KNOW how to proceed before you think you are solving the problem. Invent a solution!

4. ## Re: Finding value of a constant c in standard form of quadratic equation

And how would we solve for the roots themselves?

Edit: I posted this at the same time as you. Give me a second to read

I came up with C=8 and the roots are 1/2 and 1.Touche..