When the polynomial P(x) = x^3 + kx^2 - 4x + 1 is divided by (x - 2), the remainder is 5. What is the value of k?

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

By the Remainder Theorem, P(2) equals the remainder. Substitute x=2 into P(x) and set it equal to 5: 2^3 + k(2)^2 - 4(2) + 1 = 5. This simplifies to 8 + 4k - 8 + 1 = 5, which leads to 4k + 1 = 5, so k = 1.