For a quadratic equation with rational coefficients, if the discriminant is \(\Delta=144\), which statement correctly describes the nature of its roots?

Correct answer: The roots are real, rational, and distinct

The discriminant \(\Delta=144\) is a positive perfect square. Since \(\Delta>0\), the two roots are real and distinct; because the coefficients are rational and the discriminant is a perfect square, the roots are rational. Hence, option A is correct. Option B is true only when \(\Delta=0\). Exam tip: first use the sign of \(\Delta\) to determine whether the roots are real and distinct, and then check whether it is a perfect square to determine rationality.