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QuestionMathematics

One solution to the given equation can be written as $1 +\sqrt{k}$, where $k$ is a constant. What is the value of $k$ ? A. 8 B. 10 C. 20 D. 40
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Answer

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Step 1:
: First, we need to square both sides of the equation since the given solution is in the form $1 +\sqrt{k}$.

(1+\sqrt{k})^2 = (\text{some constant})^2
This will eliminate the square root.

Step 2:
: Expand the left side of the equation using the formula for squaring a binomial.

1 + 2\sqrt{k} + k = (\text{some constant})^2

Step 3:
: Since the given solution is $1 +\sqrt{k}$, the right side of the equation should also have a $1$ when we isolate the square root term.

1 + 2\sqrt{k} + k = 1

Step 4:
: Subtract $1$ from both sides to simplify the equation.

2\sqrt{k} + k = 0

Step 5:
: Move the $k$ term to the right side.

2\sqrt{k} = -k

Step 6:
: Square both sides again to eliminate the square root.

(2\sqrt{k})^2 = (-k)^2

Step 7:
: Simplify both sides of the equation.

4k = k^2

Step 8:
: Rearrange the equation to form a quadratic equation.

k^2 - 4k = 0

Step 9:
: Factor the quadratic equation.

k(k - 4) = 0

Step 10:
: Solve for $k$ by setting each factor equal to zero and finding the corresponding solutions.

Therefore, the correct value of $k$ is $4$.

Final Answer

Choice (D) is correct.