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Hakeem and Nandi were asked to find the location of the roots of the quadratic function represented by the table. Is either of them correct?

A) Both Hakeem and Nandi are correct.
B) Only Hakeem is correct.
C) Only Nandi is correct.
D) Neither Hakeem nor Nandi is correct.

1 Answer

1 vote

Final answer:

Without the data table or the specific positions by Hakeem and Nandi, we cannot select the correct response. Quadratic functions generally have real roots, with positive roots often being of physical significance, particularly in contexts like projectile motion.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question deals with determining the location of the roots of a quadratic function. Without the specific table or the arguments made by Hakeem and Nandi, it is not possible to provide the correct answer (A, B, C, or D). However, quadratic functions originate from quadratic equations, which describe a parabola when graphed on a Two-Dimensional (x-y) Graphing system. If the quadratic equation is derived from physical data, we can expect it to have real roots. In some physical contexts, such as projectile motion, only the positive root is of practical significance as negative roots may represent events before the starting point of the observation (e.g., before the projectile is launched).

In problems involving quadratic equations, one must ascertain the physical significance of the roots. When calculating time events like a ball being thrown or dropped, the negative root could indicate a time before the event actually starts, which is not physically meaningful. Additionally, when dealing with problems of equilibrium or motion, care must be taken to analyze all roots for their physical relevance and consistency with the established coordinate system. The correct root or roots provide meaningful information about the system being studied.

User Giorgi Lagidze
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