If (x + 2) is a factor of the polynomial P(x) = x³ + kx² - x - 2, what is the value of k?

✓ Correct Answer: Option D

By the Factor Theorem, if (x+2) is a factor, then P(-2) must be 0. Substitute x = -2 into P(x): (-2)³ + k(-2)² - (-2) - 2 = 0. This simplifies to -8 + 4k + 2 - 2 = 0, so 4k - 8 = 0, which means k = 2.