If the discriminant of a quadratic equation is D = (z − 9)(z + 1), which interval of z is required for the equation to have no real roots?

Correct answer: −1 < z < 9

A quadratic equation has no real roots when its discriminant satisfies D < 0. Therefore, (z − 9)(z + 1) < 0. This product is negative between its zeros, −1 and 9, so −1 < z < 9. In option B, D > 0, which gives two distinct real roots; at z = −1 or z = 9, D = 0, which gives equal real roots. Exam tip: For a product of two linear factors, test a value such as z = 0 to confirm the sign in the interval between the zeros.