What is a discriminant?
m_s_n
encarta dictionary
it explains it well
In quadradic equations of the form ax^2 + bx + c = 0, the discriminant is b^2 - 4 ac.
To understand what a discriminant is, let's break down the quadratic equation. In a quadratic equation of the form ax^2 + bx + c = 0, the coefficients a, b, and c represent constant values.
Now, the discriminant specifically refers to the expression b^2 - 4ac in the quadratic equation. It is called a discriminant because it helps us determine the nature and number of solutions a quadratic equation has.
To find the discriminant, simply calculate b^2 - 4ac.
If the discriminant is greater than 0, it means the quadratic equation has two distinct real solutions.
If the discriminant is equal to 0, it means the quadratic equation has one real solution (a double root).
If the discriminant is less than 0, it means the quadratic equation has no real solutions, only complex solutions.
Calculating the discriminant helps us classify quadratic equations and understand the behavior of their solutions.