Question

Identifying the values \(a\), \(b\), and \(c\) is the first step in using the quadratic formula to find solution(s) to a quadratic equation. What are the values \(a\), \(b\), and \(c\) in the following quadratic equation? \(-3x^2 - 5x + 9 = 0\)

- a. \(a = 5, b = 9, c = 0\)
- b. \(a = 3, b = 5, c = 9\)
- c. \(a = -3, b = -5, c = 9\)
- d. \(a = -5, b = 9, c = 0\)

Answer 1

The correct identification of the values a, b, and c in the quadratic equation -3x² - 5x + 9 = 0 is a = -3, b = -5, and c = 9.

Step-by-step explanation:

Identifying the values a, b, and c in a quadratic equation, which is typically written as ax²+bx+c = 0, is essential when using the quadratic formula to find the equation's solutions. Examining the quadratic equation -3x² - 5x + 9 = 0, we can directly compare it to the general form and see that the coefficients correspond to the values of a, b, and c respectively.

In this equation, a is the coefficient of x², which is -3. The b value is the coefficient of x, which is -5, and c is the constant term, which in this case is 9. Hence, for the equation -3x² - 5x + 9 = 0, the correct identification of values is a = -3, b = -5, and c = 9.