Which of the following describe the roots of the equation. Explain why?

Question

Suppose p is a positive integer greater than 1. Which of the following describe the roots of the equation. x^2-(p+1)x+p=0?

A) real and equal. B) real and irrational C) complex D) integers and unequal. Explain Why

Answer 1

To determine the case it is, you have to find the discriminant of this eqn.

discriminant of ax² + bx + c = b² - 4ac. (just substitute in your variables)

if the discriminant is 0, it is case A

if the discriminant is positive number, it is case B

if the discriminant is negative number, it is case C

if the discriminant is a perfect sq, it is case D