Assertion: In the equation \(x^2-2(a-3b)x+(a+3b)^2=0\), if \(ab<0\), then its roots are real and distinct. Reason: The discriminant of this equation is \(D=-48ab\). Choose the correct option.

Correct answer: Both the assertion and the reason are correct

Here, \(A=1\), \(B=-2(a-3b)\), and \(C=(a+3b)^2\). Thus, \(D=B^2-4AC=4(a-3b)^2-4(a+3b)^2=-48ab\). Since \(ab<0\), we have \(-48ab>0\), so the roots are real and distinct. The roots would be real and equal only if \(D=0\). Exam tip: First determine the sign of the discriminant—\(D>0\) indicates real and distinct roots.