Question

Use the discriminant to describe the roots of each equation. Then select the best description.

x^2+9x+14=0

A) Double root
B) real and rational roots
C) real and irrational roots
D) non-real roots

Answer 1

Let's find the discriminant of x^2+9x+14=0. Here, a=1, b=9 and c=14.

The discriminant is b^2-4ac. Substituting the above numeric values,
9^2-4(1)(14) = 81-56 = 25

The sqrt of 25 is 5. Thus, your polynomial has two unequal, real roots.

Off the point example: If the discriminant were zero, your poly would have two real, equal roots.