Question

If the roots of equation 3x² + 2x + (p + 2) (p – 1) = 0 are of opposite sign then which of the following cannot be the value of p?

Options

• 0

• –1

• `1/2`

• –3

Answer 1

–3

Explanation:

∵ roots are of opposite sign

∴ product of the roots is negative

⇒ (p + 2) (p – 1) should be negative.

Clearly when p = – 3, (p + 2) (p – 1) is not negative.