Question

Find the value of the discriminant. Then describe the number and type of roots for the equation. -x^2-12x+4=0

Answer 1

2 real and distinct roots

Explanation:

using the discriminant Δ = b² - 4ac

• If b² - 4ac > 0, then 2 real , distinct roots

• If b² - 4ac = 0, then 2 real and equal roots

• If b² - 4ac < 0, then 2 complex roots

for - x² - 12x + 4 = 0

with a = - 1, b = - 12, c = 4, then

b² - 4ac = (- 12)² - (4 × - 1 × 4) = 144 + 16 = 160

since b² - 4ac > 0 then there are 2 real and distinct roots