2 Polynomials

BASIC CONCEPTS – A FLOW CHART

20 Xam idea Mathematics–X

Polynomials 21
 MORE POINTS TO REMEMBER
 Value of a Polynomial: If p(x) is a polynomial and ‘a’ is any real number, then the real
number obtained by replacing x by ‘a’ in
p(x), is called the value of p(x) at x = a and is
represented by p(a).
For example, Let p(x) ≡ x2 + 2x + 5 be a
polynomial. The value of p(x) at 3 denoted by
p(3) is given by p(3) = 32 + 2 × 3 + 5 = 20.
 Graph of a Polynomial: The graph of a
polynomial p(x) is a free handed curve passing
through points (x1, y1), (x2, y2), (x3, y3) .........
etc., where y1, y2, y3 ....... are the values of
polynomial p(x) at x1, x2, x3 ....... respectively.
For example, Graph of p(x) ≡ 2x +1 (Fig 2.1)

 Geometrical meaning of the zeros of a
Polynomial: The zeros of a polynomial are
the x-coordinates of the points where the
graph of polynomial intersects or touches Fig. 2.1
x-axis.

For example, In the following polynomial p(x), 1, 4, 7 are zeros of p(x). (Fig 2.2)

p(x)

Fig. 2.2

Multiple Choice Questions [1 mark]

Choose and write the correct option in the following questions.

1. If 5 is a zero of the quadratic polynomial, x2 – kx – 15 then the value of k is

(a) 2 (b) –2 (c) 4 (d) – 4
2. The zeros of the quadratic polynomial x2 + ax + b, a, b > 0 are
(a) both positive (b) both negative
(c) one positive one negative (d) can’t say
3. If the zeros of the quadratic polynomial x2 + (a + 1) x + b are 2 and –3, then [NCERT Exemplar]
(a) a = – 7, b = – 1 (b) a = 5, b = – 1
(c) a = 2, b = – 6, (d) a = 0, b = – 6

22 Xam idea Mathematics–X

 4. Given that one of the zeroes of the cubic polynomial ax 3 + bx2 + cx + d is zero, the product of
the other two zeros is [NCERT Exemplar]
c c b
(a) – a (b) a (c) 0 (d) – a
5. If one of the zeros of a quadratic polynomial of the form x2 + ax + b is the negative of the
other, then it
(a) has no linear term and the constant term is negative.
(b) has no linear term and the constant term is positive.
(c) can have a linear term but the constant term is negative.
(d) can have a linear term but the constant term is positive.
6. If one of the zeros of the quadratic polynomial (k – 1) x2 + k x + 1 is – 3, then the value of k
is [NCERT Exemplar]
4 –4 2 – 2
(a) (b) (c) (d)
3 3 3 3
7. The number of polynomials having zeros as – 2 and 5 is  [NCERT Exemplar]
(a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) more than 3
8. If one of the zeros of the cubic polynomial x3 +ax2 + bx + c is – 1, then the product of the other
two zeroes is [NCERT Exemplar]
(a) b – a + 1 (b) b – a – 1 (c) a – b + 1 (d) a – b – 1
9. If one root of the polynomial p(y) = 5y2 + 13y + m is reciprocal of other, then the value of m is
1
(a) 6 (b) 0 (c) 5 (d)
5
10. Given that two of the zeros of the cubic polynomial ax 3 + bx2 + cx + d are 0, the value of c is
(a) less than 0 (b) greater than 0 (c) equal to 0 (d) can’t say
11. A quadratic polynomial with 3 and 2 as the sum and product of its zeros respectively is
(a) x2 + 3x – 2 (b) x2 – 3x + 2 (c) x2 – 2x + 3 (d) x2 – 2x – 3
12. A quadratic polynomial, whose zeros are 5 and – 8 is
(a) x2 + 13x – 40 (b) x2 + 4x – 3 (c) x2 – 3x + 40 (d) x2 + 3x – 40
13. The number of polynomials having zeros 1 and –2 is
(a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) more than 3
14. The zeros of the quadratic polynomial x2 + kx + k, k ! 0
(a) both cannot be positive (b) both cannot be negative
(c) are always equal (d) are always unequal
15. The degree of the remainder r(x) when p (x) = bx 3 + cx + d is divided by a polynomial of
degree 4 is
(a) less than 4 (b) less than 3
(c) equal to 3 (d) less than or equal to 3
16. If the graph of a polynomial intersects the x-axis at exactly two points, then it
(a) cannot be a linear or a cubic polynomial
(b) can be a quadratic polynomial only
(c) can be a cubic or a quadratic polynomial
(d) can be a linear or a quadratic polynomial

Polynomials 23
 17. If one zero of the quadratic polynomial x2 –5x + k is – 4 , then the value of k is
(a) 36 (b) –36 (c) 18 (d)–18
18. If a polynomial of degree 6 is divided by a polynomial of degree 2, then the degree of the
quotient is
(a) less than 4 (b) less than 2 (c) equal to 2 (d) equal to 4
19. Which of the following is not the graph of a quadratic polynomial? [NCERT Exemplar]
(a) (b)

(c) (d)

Fig. 2.3 (a to d)

20. A quadratic polynomial with sum and product of its zeros as 8 and –9 respectively is
(a) x2 –8x + 9 (b) x2 – 8x – 9 (c) x2 + 8x – 9 (d) x2 + 8x + 9

ANSWERS
1. (a) 2. (b) 3. (d) 4. (b) 5. (a) 6. (a)
7. (d) 8. (a) 9. (c) 10. (c) 11. (b) 12. (d)
13. (d) 14. (a) 15. (c) 16. (c) 17. (b) 18. (d)
19. (d) 20. (b)

Fill in the Blanks [1 mark]

Complete the following statements with appropriate word(s) in the blank space(s).
1. _________________ is not equal to zero when the divisor is not a factor of dividend.
2. The algebraic expression in which the variable has non-negative integral exponents only is
called _________________ .
3. A _________________ is a polynomial of degree 0.
4. We get the original polynomial if we multiply the _________________ together.
5. The highest power of a variable in a polynomial is called its _________________.

24 Xam idea Mathematics–X

 6. A _________________ polynomial is of degree one.
7. A cubic polynomial is of degree _________________ .
8. _________________ equation is valid for all values of its variables.
9. A linear polynomial is represented by a _________________ .
10. Degree of remainder is always _________________ than degree of divisor.
11. Degree of a _________________ polynomial is not defined.
12. Graph of a quadratic polynomial is a _________________ .
13. Sum of zeros of a quadratic polynomial bx2 + cx + a is _________________ .
14. A quadratic polynomial can have atmost _________________ zeros.
15. Number of zeros that a polynomial f(x) = (x – 2)2 +4 can have is _________________ .

Answers
1. Remainder 2. Polynomial 3. Constant 4. Factors 5. Degree 6. Linear
7. Three 8. Identity 9. straight line 10. smaller / less 11. zero
–c
12. Parabola 13. 14. 2 15. two
b

Very Short Answer Questions [1 mark]

The graphs of y = p(x) for some polynomials (for questions 1 to 4) are given below. Find the number
of zeros in each case. [NCERT]
1. 2.

Fig. 2.4 Fig. 2.5

3. 4.

Fig. 2.6 Fig. 2.7

Polynomials 25
 Sol. 1. There is no zero as the graph does not intersect the x-axis.
2. The number of zeros is four as the graph intersects the x-axis at four points.
3. The number of zeros is three as the graph intersects the x-axis at three points.
4. The number of zeros is three as the graph intersects the x-axis at three points.
Answer the following questions and justify your answer: (Q. 5 — Q. 7)
5. What will be the quotient and remainder on division of ax2 + bx + c by px3 + qx2 + rx + 5, p ≠ 0?
Sol. 0, ax2 + bx + c; as degree of divisor is greater than degree of dividend.
6. If on division of a polynomial p(x) by a polynomial g(x), the quotient is zero, what is the
relation between the degrees of p(x) and g(x)?
Sol. Since the quotient is zero, therefore
deg p(x) < deg g(x)
7. Can x – 2 be the remainder on division of a polynomial p(x) by x + 3?
Sol. No, as degree (x – 2) = degree (x + 3)
8. Find the quadratic polynomial whose zeros are –3 and 4. [NCERT Exemplar]
Sol. Sum of zeros = –3 + 4 = 1,
Product of zeros = – 3 × 4 = –12
\ Required polynomial = x2 – x – 12

9. If one zero of the quadratic polynomial x2 – 5x – 6 is 6 then find the other zero.
Sol. Let a, 6 be the zeros of given polynomial.
Then a + 6 = 5 ⇒ a = –1 .
10. If both the zeros of the quadratic polynomial ax2 + bx + c are equal and opposite in sign, then
find the value of b.
Sol. Let a and –a be the roots of given polynomial.
b
Then a + (– a) = 0 ⇒ – a =0 ⇒ b = 0.

11. What number should be added to the polynomial x2 – 5x + 4, so that 3 is the zero of the
polynomial?
Sol. Let f(x) = x2 – 5x + 4
Then f(3) = 32 – 5 × 3 + 4 = –2
For f(3) to be zero, 2 must be added to f(x).
12. Can a quadratic polynomial x2 + kx + k have equal zeros for some odd integer k > 1?
Sol. No, for equal zeros, k2 – 4k = 0 or k = 0, 4
⇒ k should be even.

13. If the zeros of a quadratic polynomial ax2 + bx + c are both negative, then can we say a, b and
c all have the same sign? Justify your answer.
b b c
Sol. Yes, because – a = sum of zeros < 0, so that a 2 0 . Also the product of the zeros = a 2 0 .
14. If the graph of a polynomial intersects the x-axis at only one point, can it be a quadratic
polynomial?
Sol. Yes, because every quadratic polynomial has at the most two zeros.
15. If the graph of a polynomial intersects the x-axis at exactly two points, is it necessarily a
quadratic polynomial?
Sol. No, x4 – 1 is a polynomial intersecting the x-axis at exactly two points.

26 Xam idea Mathematics–X

Short Answer Questions-I [2 marks]
1. If one of the zeros of the quadratic polynomial f(x) = 4x2 – 8kx – 9 is equal in magnitude but
opposite in sign of the other, find the value of k.
Sol. Let one root of the given polynomial be a.
Then the other root = – a
\ Sum of the roots = (– a) + a = 0

–b 8k
⇒
a =0 or
4
= 0 or k = 0

2. If one of the zeros of the quadratic polynomial (k + 2) x2 + kx + 4 is – 4, then find the value of
k.
Sol. Since – 4 is a zero of the given polynomial
\
(k + 2) (– 4)2 + k(– 4) + 4 = 0
⇒
16 k + 32 – 4k + 4 = 0
12k = – 36
k=–3
3. If 1 is a zero of the polynomial p(x) = ax2 – 3(a – 1)x –1, then find the value of a.
Sol. Put x = 1 in p(x)
\
p(1) = a(1)2 – 3(a – 1) × 1 – 1 = 0
⇒
a – 3a + 3 – 1 = 0 ⇒ –2a = –2 ⇒ a = 1
4. If a and b are zeros of polynomial p(x) = x2 – 5x + 6, then find the value of a + b – 3ab.
Sol. Here, a + b = 5, ab = 6
⇒
a + b –3ab = 5 – 3 × 6 = –13
5. Find the zeros of the polynomial p(x) = 4x2 – 12x + 9.
Sol. p(x) = 4x2 – 12x + 9 = (2x – 3)2
For zeros, p(x) = 0
⇒
(2x – 3)(2x – 3) = 0
3 3
⇒
x= , .
2 2
6. If one root of the polynomial p(y) = 7y2 + 14y + m is reciprocal of other, then find the value
of m.
Sol. Let the roots be a and a . Then a a a k =
1 1 m m
or 1 = or m = 7
7 7
2 1 1
7. If a and b are zeros of p(x) = x + x – 1, then find a + .
b
1 1 b+a –1
Sol. Here, a + b = –1, ab = –1, so a + = = =1
b ab –1
1 1
8. If α and β are zeros of the polynomial f(x) = ax2 +bx + c, then find 2 + 2 .
a b
Sol. Given : f(x) = ax2 + bx + c
–b c
a+b = a and ab = a

^a + bh – 2ab
2
1 1 b2 + a2
+ = =
^a bh ^abh
2 2 2 2
a b
b2 2 c a2 b2 – 2ac a2 b 2 – 2ac
= > 2 – a H× 2 =
2
× 2 =
a c a c c2

Polynomials 27
 9. If the product of two zeros of the polynomial p(x) = 2x3 + 6x2 – 4x + 9 is 3, then find its third
zero.
Sol. Let a, b, γ be the roots of the given polynomial and ab = 3
9 –9 −3
Then abc = – ⇒ 3# c= or γ=
2 2 2
10. Find the quadratic polynomial sum and product of whose zeros are –1 and –20 respectively.
Also find the zeros of the polynominal so obtained. [CBSE 2019, (30/4/2)]
Sol. Let a and b be the zeros of the quadratic polynomial.
∴
Sum of zeros, a + b = – 1
and product of zeros, a . b = – 20
Now, quadratic polynomial be
x2 – (a + b) . x + ab
= x2 – (–1) x – 20
= x2 + x – 20
Now, for zeros of this polynominal
x2 + x – 20 = 0 ⇒ x2 + 5x – 4x – 20 = 0
⇒
x (x + 5) – 4 (x + 5) = 0 ⇒ ( x + 5) ( x – 4) = 0
⇒
x = – 5, 4
∴
zeros are – 5 and 4

Short Answer Questions-II [3 marks]

Find the zeros of the following quadratic polynomials and verify the relationship between the zeros and the
coefficients (Q. 1 - Q. 2).
1. 6x2 – 3 – 7x [NCERT]
Sol. We have, p(x) = 6x2 – 3 – 7x
p(x) = 6x2 – 7x – 3 (In general form)
2
= 6x – 9x + 2x – 3 = 3x (2x – 3) + 1 (2x – 3)
= (2x – 3) (3x + 1)
The zeros of polynomial p(x) is given by
3 1
p(x) = 0 ⇒ (2x – 3) (3x + 1) = 0 ⇒   x = ,–
2 3
3 1
Thus, the zeros of 6x2 – 7x – 3 are a = and b = –
2 3

Now, sum of the zeros = a + b = 3 – 1 =

9–2 7
=
2 3 6 6
(Coefficient of x)
– (–7) 7
and = =
Coefficient of x2 6 6
– (Coefficient of x)
Therefore, sum of the zeros =
Coefficient of x2
3 # 1 = 1
Again, product of zeros = a . b = d– n –
2 3 2
Constant term –3 1
and = =–
Coefficient of x 2 6 2

28 Xam idea Mathematics–X

 Constant term
Therefore, product of zeros = Hence verified.
Coefficient of x2
2
2. 4u + 8u [NCERT]
2
Sol. We have, p(u) = 4u + 8u ⇒ p(u) = 4u (u + 2)
The zeros of polynomial p(u) is given by
p(u) = 0 ⇒ 4u (u + 2) = 0
\ u = 0, –2
Thus, the zeros of 4u2 + 8u are a = 0 and b = –2
Now, sum of the zeros = a + b = 0 – 2 = – 2
– (Coefficient of u) –8
and = = –2
Coefficient of u 2 4
– (Coefficient of u)
Therefore, sum of the zeros =
Coefficient of u2
Again, product of the zeros = a . b = 0 × (–2) = 0
Constant term0
and =0 =
Coefficient of u 4 2

Constant term
Therefore, product of zeros =
Coefficient of u2
Hence verified
3. Check whether the first polynomial is a factor of the second polynomial by dividing the second
polynomial by the first polynomial:
(i) x2 + 3x + 1, 3x4 + 5x3 – 7x2 + 2x + 2 (ii) t2 – 3, 2t4 + 3t3 – 2t2 – 9t – 12 [NCERT]

g
Sol. (i) We have, 3x – 4x + 2 2

x + 3x + 1 3x 4 + 5x 3 – 7 x 2 + 2 x + 2
2

3x 4 ! 9x 3 ! 3x 2

–4x3 – 10x2 + 2x
3 2
" 4x " 12x " 4x
2x 2 + 6x + 2
2x 2 ! 6x ! 2
0
Clearly, remainder is zero, so x + 3x + 1 is a factor of polynomial 3x4 + 5x3 – 7x2 + 2x + 2.
2

(ii) We have,

g
2t2 + 3t + 4
t 2 – 3 2 t 4 + 3 t 3 – 2 t 2 – 9t – 1 2
2t 4 " 6t
2

3t + 4t 2 – 9t
3

3t 3 " 9t
2
4t – 12
4t2 " 12
0
  Clearly, remainder is zero, so t2 – 3 is a factor of polynomial 2t4 + 3t3 – 2t2 – 9t – 12.

Polynomials 29
 4. If a and b are the zeros of the quadratic polynomial f(x) = 2x2 – 5x + 7, find a polynomial
whose zeros are 2a + 3b and 3a + 2b.
Sol. Since a and b are the zeros of the quadratic polynomial f(x) = 2x2 – 5x + 7
– (–5) 5 7
\ a+ b = = and ab =
2 2 2
Let S and P denote respectively the sum and product of the zeros of the required polynomial.
5 25
Then, S = (2a + 3b) + (3a + 2b) = 5(a + b) = 5 # =
2 2
and P = (2a + 3b) (3a + 2b)
⇒
P = 6a2 + 6b2 + 13ab = 6a2 + 6b2 + 12ab + ab
= 6(a2 + b2 + 2ab) + ab = 6(a + b)2 + ab
5 2
P=6 #c m +
7 75 7
⇒
= + = 41
2 2 2 2
Hence, the required polynomial g(x) is given by
g(x) = k(x2 – Sx + P)
25
or g(x) = k c x2 – x + 41 m , where k is any non-zero real number.
2
5. What must be subtracted from p(x) = 8x4 + 14x3 – 2x2 + 7x – 8 so that the resulting polynomial
is exactly divisible by g(x) = 4x2 + 3x – 2?
Sol. Let y be subtracted from polynomial p(x)
\
8x4 + 14x3 – 2x2 + 7x – 8 – y is exactly divisible by g(x)

g
Now, 2x 2 + 2x – 1
4x2 + 3x – 2 8x 4 + 14x3 – 2x2 + 7x – 8 – y
8x 4 ! 6x 3 " 4x 2
8 x 3 + 2 x 2 + 7x – 8 – y
8x 3 ! 6x 2 " 4x

– 4x2 + 11x – 8 – y
2
" 4x " 3x ! 2
14x – 10 – y

 Remainder should be 0.
\
14x – 10 – y = 0
or 14x – 10 = y or y = 14x – 10
\ Hence (14x – 10) should be subtracted from p(x) so that it will be exactly divisible by g(x).

6. What must be added to f(x) = 4x4 + 2x3 – 2x2 + x – 1 so that the resulting polynomial is
divisible by g(x) = x2 + 2x – 3?
Sol. By division algorithm, we have
f(x) = g(x) × q(x) + r(x)
⇒
f(x) – r(x) = g(x) × q(x)   ⇒ f(x) + {–r(x)} = g(x) × q(x)
Clearly, RHS is divisible by g(x). Therefore, LHS is also divisible by g(x). Thus, if we add –r(x) to
f(x), then the resulting polynomial is divisible by g(x). Let us now find the remainder when f(x) is
divided by g(x).

30 Xam idea Mathematics–X

 g
4x2 – 6x + 22
x + 2x – 3 4 x 4 + 2 x 3 – 2 x 2 + x – 1
2

4x 4 ! 8x3 " 12x2

–6x3 + 10x2 + x – 1
3 2
" 6x " 12x ! 18x
22x2 – 17x – 1
22x2 ! 44x " 66
–61x + 65
\
r(x) = –61x + 65 or –r(x) = 61x – 65
Hence, we should add –r(x) = 61x – 65 to f(x) so that the resulting polynomial is divisible by g(x).
11 2
7. Find the zeros of the quadratic polynomial 7y2 – y– and verify the relationship between
3 3
zeros and the cofficients. [CBSE 2019, (30/2/1)]
11 2
Sol. Given: p(x) = 7y 2 – y–
3 3
1 1
= (21y2 –11y –2) = (21y2 – 14y + 3y – 2)
3 3
1 1
= [7y (3y – 2) + 1 (3y – 2)] = (7y + 1) (3y – 2)
3 3

Equating p(x) = 0
1 –1 2
⇒
(7y + 1) (3y – 2) = 0 ⇒ y= and y =
3 7 3
–c m
–11
–b 3 11
Now, sum of zeros = = =
a 7 21
2 1 14 – 3 11
– = = =
3 7 21 21
2
–
c 3 –2
and product of zeros = = =
a 7 21
–1 2 –2
= × = Hence verified.
7 3 21
8. If a and b are the zeros of the quadratic polynomial f(x) = x2 – 4x +3, find the value of
a 4 b2 + a2 b 4 . [CBSE 2019, (30/4/1)]
Sol. Given quadratic polynomial is
f(x) = x2 – 4x + 3

– ( –4 )
∴ Sum of zeros = a + b =
=4
1
⇒
α+β=4
3
and product of zeros, ab = =3
1

 a2 + b2 = (a + b) 2 –2ab
⇒ a2 + b2 = (4) 2 –2×3 = 16 – 6 = 10
Now, a 4 b2 + a2 b 4 = a2 b2 (a2 + b2) = (3) 2 ×10 = 9 ×10 = 90
∴
a 4 b2 + a2 b 4 = 90

Polynomials 31
 9. If one zero of the polynomial 3x2 – 8x + 2k + 1 is seven times the other, find the value of k.
Sol. Let a and b be the zeros of the polynomial. Then as per question b = 7a
–8
Now sum of zeros = a + b = a + 7a = – d n
3
8 1
⇒
8 a= or a=
3 3
2k +1
and a # b = a # 7a =
3
2k + 1 1 2 2k + 1
7c m = ca a = m
1
⇒
7a2 = ⇒
3 3 3 3
7 2k + 1 7
⇒
= ⇒ = 2k + 1
9 3 3
7 2
⇒
– 1 = 2k ⇒ k=
3 3
10. For what value of k, is the polynomial f(x) = 3x4– 9x3 + x2+15x + k completely divisible by
3x2 – 5?
Sol. f (x) = 3x 4 –9x3 + x2 + 15x + k
g (x) = 3x2 – 5

Since f(x) is completely divisible by g(x), r (x) = 0 therefore by long division

3x2 – 5 3x4 – 9x3 + x2 +15x + k x2 – 3x – 2
3x4 – 5x2
– +
–9x3+6x2+15x + k
–9x3 +15x
+ –
6x + k
2

6x2 – 10
– +
k + 10 = r(x)
But r(x) = 0
∴
k+10 = 0 ⇒ k = –10
11. If one zero of polynomial (a + 9)x2 + 13x + 6a is reciprocal of the other, find the value of a.
2

Sol. Let one zero of the given polynomial be a.

1
Then, the other zero is a
1
\ Product of zeros = a # a =1
6a
But, as per the given polynomial product of zeros = 2
a +9
6a
\
2
=1 ⇒ a2 + 9 = 6a
a +9
⇒
a2 – 6a + 9 = 0 ⇒ (a – 3)2 = 0
⇒
a – 3 = 0 ⇒ a=3
Hence, a = 3.
12. If the polynomial (x4 + 2x3 + 8x2 + 12x + 18) is divided by another polynomial (x2 + 5), the
remainder comes out to be (px + q). Find values of p and q.
Sol. Let f(x) = (x4 + 2x3 + 8x2 + 12x + 18) and g(x) = (x2 + 5)
On dividing f(x) by g(x), we get

32 Xam idea Mathematics–X



g
x2 + 2x + 3
x2 + 5 x 4 + 2x3 + 8x2 + 12x + 18
x4 ! 5x
2

2x3 + 3x2 + 12x

2x 3 ! 1 0x
3x2 + 2x + 18
3x 2 ! 15
2x + 3
Now, px + q = 2x + 3 ⇒ p = 2, q = 3 (By comparing the coefficient of x and constant term).

Long Answer Questions [5 marks]

1. Verify that the numbers given alongside the cubic polynomial below are its zeros. Also verify
the relationship between the zeros and the coefficients. [NCERT]
x3 – 4x2 + 5x – 2; 2, 1, 1
Sol. Let p(x) = x3 – 4x2 + 5x – 2
On comparing with general polynomial p(x) = ax3 + bx2 + cx + d, we get a = 1, b = –4, c = 5 and
d = –2.
Given zeros 2, 1, 1.
\ p(2) = (2)3 – 4(2)2 + 5(2) – 2 = 8 – 16 + 10 – 2 = 0
and p(1) = (1)3 – 4(1)2 + 5(1) – 2 = 1 – 4 + 5 – 2 = 0.
Hence, 2, 1 and 1 are the zeros of the given cubic polynomial.
Again, consider a = 2, b =1, g = 1
\
a+b+g=2+1+1=4
– (Coefficient of x2 ) – b – (–4)
and a+b + c = = a = =4
Coefficient of x3 1
ab + bg + ga = (2) (1) + (1) (1) + (1) (2) = 2 + 1 + 2 = 5
Coefficient of x c 5
and ab + bg + ga = = a = =5
Coefficient of x3 1
abg = (2) (1) (1) = 2
– (Constant term) –d – (–2)
and abc = = a = =2
Coefficient of x3 1
2. Find a cubic polynomial with the sum of the zeros, sum of the products of its zeros taken two
at a time, and the product of its zeros as 2, –7, –14 respectively. [NCERT]
Sol. Let the cubic polynomial be p(x) = ax3 + bx2 + cx + d. Then
–b
Sum of zeros = a = 2
c
Sum of the products of zeros taken two at a time = a = –7
–d
and product of the zeros = a = –14

b c d d
⇒
a = –2 , a = –7 , – a = –14 or a =14
p (x) = a :x3 + a x2 + a x + a D
b c d
\
p(x) = ax3 + bx2 + cx + d   ⇒

Polynomials 33
 p(x) = a[x3 + (–2)x2 + (–7)x + 14] ⇒ p(x) = a[x3 – 2x2 – 7x + 14]
For real value of a = 1, p(x) = x3 – 2x2 – 7x + 14
3. Find the zeros of the polynomial f(x) = x3 – 5x2 – 2x + 24, if it is given that the product of its
two zeros is 12.
Sol. Let a, b and g be the zeros of polynomial f(x) such that ab = 12.
– b – (– 5)
We have, a+b + c = a = =5
1
c –2 –d –24
ab + bc + ca = a = = –2 and abc = a = = –24
1 1
Putting ab = 12 in abg = –24, we get
24
12g = –24 ⇒ c=– =– 2
12
Now, a + b + g = 5 ⇒ a+b–2=5
⇒ a + b = 7 ⇒ a=7–b
⇒ (7 – b) b = 12 [ ab = 12] ⇒ 7b – b2 = 12
⇒ b2 – 7b + 12 = 0 ⇒ b2 – 3b – 4b + 12 = 0
⇒ b(b – 3) – 4 (b – 3) = 0 ⇒ (b – 4) (b – 3) = 0 ⇒ b = 4 or b = 3
\ a = 3 or a = 4
So, zeroes of f(x) are 3, 4, – 2
4. If the remainder on division of x3 – kx2 + 13x – 21 by 2x – 1 is –21, find the quotient and the
value of k. Hence, find the zeros of the cubic polynomial x3 – kx2 + 13x.
Sol. Let f(x) = x3 – kx2 + 13x – 21
1 3 1 2
f c m = –21 c m – k c m + 13 c m – 21 = – 21
1 1
Then, ⇒
2 2 2 2

g
1 1 13 k 53 53 1 2
or – k+ – 21 + 21 = 0   or   = &k= x – 13x
8 4 2 4 8 2 2
53 2
53 2 2 x –1 x 3 – x + 13x
\
f (x) = x3 – x +13x – 21 2
2
Now, f(x) = q(x)(2x – 1) – 21 1 2
x3 " x
2
53 2
⇒
x3 – x +13x – 21 = q (x) (2x – 1) – 21
2 –26x2 + 13x
" 26x2 ! 13x
c x3 – x +13x m ' (2x – 1) = q (x)
53 2
⇒

2 0
53 2 1 1

i.e., x3 – x +13x = (2x – 1) c x2 – 13x m = x (2x – 1) (x – 26)
2 2 2
53 2 1 1
For zeros, x3 – x +13x = 0 ⇒ x (2x – 1) (x – 26) = 0 ⇒ x = 0, , 26
2 2 2

5 5
5. Obtain all other zeros of 3x4 + 6x3 – 2x2 – 10x – 5, if two of its zeros are and – .
3 3
[NCERT]
Sol. Since two zeros are 5 and – 5 , so c x – 5
m cx+
5
m = x2 –
5
is a factor of the
3 3 3 3 3
given polynomial.

Now, we divide the given polynomial by c x2 – m to obtain other zeros.

5
3

34 Xam idea Mathematics–X

 g
3x 2 + 6x + 3
5
x2 – 3x 4 + 6x 3 –2x 2 – 1 0x – 5
3
3x 4 " 5x 2
6x3 + 3x2 – 10x

6x 3 " 10x
3x 2 – 5
3x 2 " 5
0
3x4 + 6x3 – 2x2 – 10x – 5 = c x2 – m (3x2 + 6x + 3)
5
So,
3
Now, 3x2 + 6x + 3 = 3(x2 + 2x + 1) = 3(x + 1)2 = 3(x + 1)(x + 1)
So its zeros are –1, –1.
Thus, all the zeros of given polynomial are 5 / 3 , – 5 / 3 , –1 and –1.
6. Given that 2 is a zero of the cubic polynomial 6x 3 + 2 x2 –10x – 4 2 , find its other zeros.
[NCERT Exemplar]
3 2
Sol. The given polynomial is f(x) = (6x + 2 x – 10x – 4 2 ) . Since 2 is the zero of f(x), it follows
that (x – 2) is a factor of f(x).
On dividing f(x) by (x – 2) , we get

g
6x2 + 7 2 x + 4
x – 2 6x3 + 2 x2 – 10x – 4 2
6x3 +– 6 2 x2
7 2 x2 – 10x
7 2 x2 +– 14x
4x – 4 2
– 4x +– 4 2
+
0
\
f (x) = 0 & (x – 2 ) ( 6x 2 + 7 2 x + 4 ) = 0 & (x – 2 ) (3 2 x + 4) ( 2 x +1) = 0
x – 2 = 0, 3 2 x + 4 = 0, 2 x +1 = 0
2 2 – 2 –2 2 – 2
Hence, x = 2 , x = – , x= and all zeros of f(x) are 2, , .
3 2 3 2

HOTS [Higher Order Thinking Skills]

1. If a, b, g be zeros of polynomial 6x3 + 3x2 – 5x + 1, then find the value of a–1 + b–1 + g–1.
Sol. p(x) = 6x3 + 3x2 – 5x + 1 so a = 6, b = 3, c = –5, d = 1

 a, b and g are zeros of the polynomial p(x).
–b –3 –1
\ a+b + c = a = =
6 2
c –5 – d –1
ab + ac + bc = a = and abc = a =
6 6
1 1 1 bc + ac + ab – 5/6
Now a –1 + b –1 + c –1 = a + + c = = =5
b abc – 1/6
2. Find the zeros of the polynomial f(x) = x3 – 12x2 + 39x – 28, if it is given that the zeros are in AP.
Sol. Let a, b, g are the zeros of f(x). If a, b, g are in AP, then,

Polynomials 35
 b – a = g – b ⇒ 2b = a + g …(i)
– b – (–12)
a +b + c = a = =12 ⇒ a + g = 12 – b …(ii)
1
From (i) and (ii)
2b = 12 – b or 3b = 12 or b=4
Putting the value of b in (i), we have
8 = a + g …(iii)
d – (– 28)
abc = – a = = 28
1
7
(a g) 4 = 28 or a g = 7 or c = a …(iv)
7
Putting the value of c = a in (iii), we get
7
⇒ 8 = a + a ⇒ 8a = a2 + 7
⇒
a2 – 8a + 7 = 0 ⇒ a2 – 7a – 1a + 7 = 0
⇒
a(a – 7) –1 (a – 7) = 0 ⇒ (a – 1) (a – 7) = 0
⇒
a=1 or a = 7
Putting a = 1 in (iv), we get Putting a = 7 in (iv), we get
7 7
c= c=
1 7
or g = 7 or g=1
and b = 4 and b = 4
\ zeros are 1, 7, 4.
\ zeros are 7, 4, 1.
Hence zeros are 1, 4, 7 or 7, 4, 1
3. If the polynomial f(x) = x4 – 6x3 + 16x2 – 25x + 10 is divided by another polynomial
x2 – 2x + k, the remainder comes out to be x + a. Find k and a. [NCERT]
Sol. By division algorithm, we have Dividend = Divisor × Quotient + Remainder
⇒ Dividend – Remainder = Divisor × Quotient
⇒ Dividend – Remainder is always divisible by the divisor.
When f(x)=x4 – 6x3+16x2 – 25x+10 is divided by x2 – 2x+k the remainder comes out to be x + a.
\
f(x) – (x + a) = x4 – 6x3 + 16x2 – 25x + 10 – (x + a)
= x4 – 6x3 + 16x2 – 25x + 10 – x – a = x4 – 6x3 + 16x2 – 26x + 10 – a
is exactly divisible by x2 – 2x + k
Let us now divide x4 – 6x3 + 16x2 – 26x + 10 – a by x2 – 2x + k.

g
x2 – 4x + (8 – k)
x2 – 2x + k x 4 – 6x3 + 16x2 – 26x + 10 – a
x 4 " 2x3 ! kx2
– 4x3 + (16 – k) x2 – 26x + 10 – a
3 2
" 4x ! 8x " 4kx
(8 – k) x2 – (26 – 4k) x + 10 – a
2 2
! (8 – k) x " (16 – 2k) x ! (8k – k )
(– 10 + 2k) x + (10 – a – 8k + k2)
For f(x) – (x + a) = x4 – 6x3 + 16x2 – 26x + 10 – a to be exactly divisible by x2 – 2x + k, we must
have (–10 + 2k) x + (10 – a – 8k + k2) = 0 for all x
⇒ –10 + 2k = 0 and 10 – a – 8k + k2 = 0
⇒ k = 5 and 10 – a – 40 + 25 = 0
⇒ k = 5 and a = –5

36 Xam idea Mathematics–X

 PROFICIENCY EXERCISE
QQ Objective Type Questions: [1 mark each]
1. Choose and write the correct option in each of the following questions.
(i) If 2 and α are zeros of 2x2 – 6x + 2 then the value of α is
(a) 2 (b) 3 (c) 1 (d) 5
3 2
(ii) If two of the zeros of the cubic polynomial ax + bx + cx + d are 0, then the third zero is
b c –d –b
(a) a (b) a (c) (d)
a a

(iii) The product of the zeros of the polynomial 4x2 + 3x + 7 is

3 3 7 –7
(a) (b) – (c) (d)
4 4 4 4
(iv) A quadratic polynomial with sum and product of its zeros as 8 and – 9 respectively is
(a) x2 – 8x + 9 (b) x2 – 8x – 9 (c) x2 + 8x – 9 (d) x2 + 8x + 9
(v) If one of the zeros of the quadratic polynomial (k – 1) x2 + kx + 1 is – 3, then the value of k
is
4 –4 2 –2
(a) (b) (c) (d)
3 3 3 3
2. Fill in the blanks.
(i) If the product of zeros of the polynomial x2 – 9x + a is 8, then its zeros are _____ and _____.
(ii) If the polynomial p(x) = x3 – kx2 + 3x + 2 is exactly divisible by (x + 1) then the value of k
is ___________ .
(iii) Zeros of the quadratic polynomial t2 – 15 are ___________ and ___________.
(iv) If β is a zero of f(x) then __________ is one of the factors of f(x).
(v) Graph of a cubic polynomial cuts x-axis at atmost ______________ points.

QQ Very Short Answer Questions: [1 mark each]

3. If one zero of the quadratic polynomial x2 + x – 2 is –2, find the other zero.
4. Find the other zero of the quadratic polynomial y2 + 7y – 60 if one zero is –12.
5. Find the quadratic polynomial whose zeros are – 3 and – 5.
6. Find the quadratic polynomial whose zeros are 2 and – 6.
7. What number should be added to the polynomial x2 + 7x – 35 so that 3 is the zero of the
polynomial?
The graph of y = p(x) for some polynomials (Q 8 to 9) are given below. Find the number of zeros in
each case.
8.

Polynomials 37
 9.

10. Can y + 5 be the remainder on division of a polynomial f(y) by y – 2?

11. Can x2 – 1 be the quotient on division of x6 + 2x3 + x – 1 by a polynomial in x of degree 5?
12. If on division of a polynomial p(x) by a polynomial g(x), the quotient is zero, what is the relation
between the degrees of p(x) and g(x)?
13. If one zero of the quadratic polynomial p(x) = x2 + 4kx – 25 is negative of the other, find the value of k.
QQ Short Answer Questions–I: [2 marks each]
2 1 1
14. If a, b are the zeros of the polynomial f(x) = x – 3x + 2, then find a + .
b
1 2
15. If a and a are the zeros of polynomial 4x – 2x + (k–4), then find the value of k.
16. If the sum of the zeros of the polynomial f(x) = 2x3 – 3kx2 + 4x – 5 is 6, then find the value of k.
17. If 1 is the zero of the quadratic polynomial x2 + kx – 5, then find the value of k.
18. Find the zeros of the polynomial 5y2 – 11y + 2.
19. If one of the zeros of the quadratic polynomial (k – 2)x2 – 2x – (k + 5) is 4, find the value of k.
1 1
20. If a, b are the zeros of the polynomial x2 + x – 6, find the value of 2 + 2 .
a b
21. If the remainder on division of x3 + 2x2 + kx + 3 by x – 3 is 21, find the quotient and the value of k.
22. If a, b are the two zeros of the polynomial f(y) = y2 – 8y + a and a2 + b2 = 40, find the value of a.
23. If a and b are zeros of p(x) = x2 + x – 1, then find a2b + ab2.
QQ Short Answer Questions–II: [3 marks each]
2
24. If the sum of the zeros of the quadratic polynomial f(x) = kx + 2x + 3k is equal to their product,
find the value of k.
25. Find a quadratic polynomial each with the given numbers as the sum and product of the zeros
respectively.
2 1 –3 –1 21 5
(i) , – (ii) 0, – 4 3 (iii)
, (iv) ,
3 3 2 5 2 8 16
Also find the zeros of those polynomials by factorisation.
26. Find the zeros of the following polynomials and verify the relationship between the zeros and
the coefficients of the polynomials.
11 2
(i) 3x2 + 4x – 4 (ii) 7y2 – y– (iii) p2 – 30
3 3
(iv) 3 x2 – 11x + 6 3 (v) a(x2 + 1) –x(a2 +1) (vi) 6x2 + x – 2
27. Check whether g(x) is a factor of p(x) by dividing the first polynomial by the second polynomial:
(i) p(x) = 4x3 + 8x + 8x2 + 7, g(x) = 2x3 – x + 1

38 Xam idea Mathematics–X

 (ii) p(x) = x4 – 5x + 6, g(x) = 2 – x2
(iii) p(x) = 13x3 – 19x2 + 12x + 14, g(x) = 2 – 2x + x2
28. If (x – 2) is a factor of x3 + ax2 + bx + 16 and b = 4a, find the values of a and b.
29. If a and b are the zeros of the quadratic polynomial f(x) = 3x2 – 5x – 2, then evaluate a2 + b2.
30. If a and b are the zeros of the quadratic polynomial f(t) = t2 – p(t + 1) – c, show that
(a + 1) (b + 1) = 1 – c.
31. What must be subtracted from x3 – 6x2 + 13x – 6 so that the resulting polynomial is exactly
divisible by x2 + x + 1?
32. What must be added to f(x) = x4 + 2x3 – 2x2 + x – 1, so that the resulting polynomial is divisible
by g(x) = x2 + 2x – 3?
33. If the zeros of the quadratic polynomial x2 + (a + 1)x + b are 2 and – 3, then find a and b.
1
34. Find the zeros of the polynomial x2 + x – 2 and verify the relation between the coefficients
6
and the zeros of the polynomial. [NCERT Exemplar]
5 5
35. Obtain all zeros of 3x4 – 15x3 + 13x2 + 25x – 30 if two of its zeros are and – .
3 3
[CBSE 2018 (C) 30/1]
36. Find the value of k such that the polynomial x2 – (k + 6) x + 2 (2 k – 1) has sum of its zeros equal
to half of their product. [CBSE 2019 (C) 30/1/1]
37. Check whether g(x) is a factor of p(x) by dividing polynomial p(x) by polynomial g(x),
where p(x) = x5 – 4x3 + x2 + 3x +1, g(x) = x3 – 3x + 1. [CBSE 2019 (C) 30/3/1]
4 3 2
38. Find all the zeros of the polynomial x + x – 14x – 2x + 24 if two of its zeroes are 2 and – 2 .
[CBSE 2019 (C) 30/3/1]
2
39. Apply division algorithm to check if g(x) = x – 3x + 2 is a factor of the polynomial
f(x) = x4 – 2x3 – x + 2.
[CBSE 2019 (C) 30/3/2]
40. Find all the zeroes of 2x4 – 13x3 + 19x2 + 7x – 3, if you know that two of its zeroes are
2 + 3 and 2 – 3 . [CBSE 2019 (C) 30/1/1]
QQ Long Answer Questions: [5 marks each]
41. Given that x – 5 is a factor of the cubic polynomial x3 – 3 5 x2 + 13x – 3 5 , find all the zeros
of the polynomial. [NCERT Exemplar]
42. If a and b are zeros of polynomial f(x) = 2x2 + 11x + 5, then find
1 1
(i) a4 + b4 (ii) a + – 2ab
b
43. If a and b are the zeros of the polynomial f(x) = 4x2 – 5x + 1, find a quadratic polynomial whose
α2 β2
zeros are and .
β α
44. On dividing the polynomial f(x) = x3 – 5x2 + 6x – 4 by a polynomial g(x), the quotient and
remainder are x – 3 and –3x + 5 respectively. Find the polynomial g(x).
45. Verify that the numbers given alongside the cubic polynomials below are their zeros. Also verify
the relationship between the zeros and the coefficients.
1
(i) x3 – 2x2 – 5x + 6; –2, 1, 3 (ii) 2x3 + 7x2 + 2x – 3; –3, –1,
2
46. (i) Obtain all other zeros of 2x4 + 7x3 – 19x2 – 14x + 30, if two of its zeros are 2 and – 2 .
(ii) Obtain all other zeros of 2x3 + x2 – 6x – 3, if two of its zeros are – 3 and 3.

Polynomials 39
 Answers
1. (i) (c) (ii) (d) (iii) (c) (iv) (b) (v) (a)
2. (i) 1 ; 8 (ii) – 2 (iii) – 15 ; 15 (iv) (x – β) (v) three
2 2
3. 1 4. 5 5. x + 8x + 15 6. x + 4x – 12 7. 5
8. 1 9. 0 10. No 11. No 12. deg p(x) < deg g(x)
3
13. k = 0 14. 15. k = 8 16. 4 17. 4
2
1 13
18. ,2 19. k = 3 20. 21. k = –9 and quotient = x2 + 5x + 6 22. a = 12
5 36
1 1
–2 1 –1
23. 1 24. k = 25. (i) (3x2 – 2x – 1); , 1 (ii) x2 − 4 3; 2(3) 4 , −2(3) 4
3 3 3
1 – 5 1 1 2- 1 5
(iii) (2 5 x2 + 3x – 5 ); , (iv)
16 (16x 42x + 5); 8 , 2
2 5 2 5
2 –1 2 2 1 –2 1
26. (i) –2, (ii) , (iii) 30 , – 30 (iv) ,3 3 (v) a, a (vi) ,
3 7 3 3 3 2
37
27. (i) No (ii) No (iii) Yes 28. a = –2, b = –8 29.
9 4 –3
31. 19x + 1 32. x – 2 33. a = 0, b = –6 34. zeroes are ,
3 2
5 5
35. , − , 2 and 3 36. k = 7
3 3
37. Since remainder ≠ 0 ∴ g(x) is a factor of p(x), remainder = 2, Quotient = x2 – 1
38. All zeroes are – 4, 3, 2, – 2
2
39. Quotient = x + x + 1, Remainder = 0, yes g(x) is factor of f(x)
1 10001 –36
40. 2 + 3 , 2 – 3 , – and 3. 41. 5 , 5 + 2 , 5 , – 2 42. (i) (ii)
2 16 5
1 3 1
43. (16x2 – 65x + 4) 44. x2 – 2x + 3 46. (i) 2, − 2, − 5 and (ii) 3, − 3 and
16 2 2

SELF-ASSESSMENT TEST

Time allowed: 1 hour Max. marks: 40

Section A
1. Choose and write the correct option in the following questions. (4 × 1 = 4)
(i) A quadratic polynomial, whose zeros are – 3 and 4, is
x2 x
(a) x2 – x + 12 (b) x2 + x + 12 (c) – –6 (d) 2x2 + 2x – 24
2 2
2
(ii) The zeros of the quadratic polynomial x + 99x + 127 are
(a) both positive (b) both negative
(c) one positive and one negative (d) both equal
(iii) The zeros of the quadratic polynomial ax2 + bx + c, c ≠ 0 are equal, then
(a) c and a have opposite signs (b) c and b have opposite signs
(c) c and a have the same sign (d) c and b have the same sign
(iv) Product of zeros of a cubic polynomial is
–d c d –b
(a) (b) (c) (d)
a b b a
2. Fill in the blanks. (3 × 1 = 3)
(i) Graph of a quadratic polynomial is shape of a _______________ if a > 0.
(ii) Sum of zeros of a cubic polynomial is _______________ .

40 Xam idea Mathematics–X

 (iii) The value of polynomial p(x) at x = k is denoted as _______________ .
3. Solve the following questions. (3 × 1 = 3)
2
(i) If α and β are zeros of the quadratic polynomial f (x) = x – x –4, then find the value of
1 1
a + b – ab .
(ii) If the square of difference of the zeros of the quadratic polynomial x2 +px + 45 is equal
to 144. Find out the value of p.
1 1 1
(iii) If the sum of zeros of the polynomial + – c is zero, then what is the product
x+a +
x b
of zeros of the given polynomial?

Section B
QQ Solve the following questions. (3 × 2 = 6)
2
4. If a and b are the zeros of the quadratic polynomial f(x) = 3x – 5x – 2, then evaluate
2
a2 b
(i) a3 + b3 (ii) + a
b
5. If the polynomial f(x) = ax3 + bx – c is divisible by the polynomial g(x) = x2 + bx + c, then find
the value of ab.
6. If one root of the polynomial f(x) = x2 + 5x + k is reciprocal of the other, find the value of k.
QQ Solve the following questions. (3 × 3 = 9)
2
7. If and – 3 are the zeros of the polynomial ax2 + 7x + b, then find the values of a and b.
3 n–q
8. If (x + a) is a factor of two polynomials x2 + px + q and x2 + mx + n then prove that a = .
m– p
9. Given that 3 is a zero of the polynomial x3 + x2 – 3x – 3, find its other two zeros.
QQ Solve the following questions. (3 × 5 = 15)
2
10. If a and b are the zeros of the quadratic polynomial f(x) = 3x – 7x – 6, find a polynomial whose
zeros are (i) a2 and b2 (ii) 2a + 3b and 3a + 2b
11. Find all zeros of the polynomial ( 2x 4 – 9x3 + 5x2 + 3x – 1 ) if two of its zeros are (2 + 3 ) and
(2– 3 ) . [CBSE 2018 (30/1)]
3 2
12. If the zeros of the polynomial f(x) = x – 3x – 6x + 8 are of the form a – b, a, a + b, find all the zeros.

Answers
1. (i) (c) (ii) (b) (iii) (c) (iv) (a)
–b
2. (i) parabola (ii) a (iii) p (k)
15 – ( a 2 + b 2)
3. (i) (ii) ±18 (iii)
4 2
215 – 215
4. (i) (ii) 5. 1 6. k = 1 7. a = 3, b = – 6
27 18
9. – 3 , –1
1 1
10. (i) (9x2 –85x + 36) (ii) (3x2 –35x + 92)
9 3
–1
11. (2 + 3 ), (2 – 3 ), and 1 12. –2, 1 and 4 or 4, 1 and – 2
2
zzz

Polynomials 41