What is the discriminant of #3x^2-10x+4=0#?

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Answer 1 · 2014-09-11T05:23:23

The discriminant is the expression #b^2-4ac# where, #a, b and c# are found from the standard form of a quadratic equation, #ax^2+bx+c=0#.

In this example #a=3, b=-10, and c=4#

#b^2-4ac = (-10)^2-4(3)(4)= 100-48=52#

Also note that the discriminant describes the number and type root(s).

#b^2-4ac# > 0, indicates 2 real roots

#b^2-4ac# = 0, indicates 1 real root

#b^2-4ac# < 0, indicates 2 imaginary roots