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If α and β are the zeroes of the polynomial 2x2+5x+k . . .

Question : If α and β are the zeroes of the polynomial 2x²+5x+k such that α²+β²+αβ = 21/4, then find the value of k.

Doubt by Saksham

Solution : 
2x²+5x+k

a = 2
b = 5
c = k

α+β = -b/a
α+β = -(5)/2
α+β = -5/2 — (1)

αβ = c/a
αβ = k/2 — (2)

α²+β²+αβ = 21/4 (Given)
[(α+β)²-2αβ]+αβ = 21/4 [∵α²+β²=(α+β)²-2αβ]
(α+β)²-2αβ+αβ = 21/4
(α+β)²-αβ = 21/4
(-5/2)²-k/2 = 21/4 [Using (1) and (2)]
25/4-k/2 = 21/4
25/4-21/4 = k/2
(25-21)/4 = k/2
4/4 = k/2
1 = k/2
1×2 = k
2 = k
k = 2

Hence, the required value of k is 2.