If the roots of the equation \(x^2+2(m-4)x+(m^2-7m+14)=0\) are equal, what is the value of \(m\)?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: 2
For a quadratic equation \(ax^2+bx+c=0\) to have equal roots, its discriminant must be zero: \(D=b^2-4ac=0\). Here, \(a=1\), \(b=2(m-4)\), and \(c=m^2-7m+14\). Therefore, \(D=4(m-4)^2-4(m^2-7m+14)=4(2-m)\). Setting \(D=0\) gives \(4(2-m)=0\), so \(m=2\). Exam tip: whenever equal roots are mentioned, immediately use the condition \(D=0\).
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
2
Why is this the correct answer?
For a quadratic equation \(ax^2+bx+c=0\) to have equal roots, its discriminant must be zero: \(D=b^2-4ac=0\). Here, \(a=1\), \(b=2(m-4)\), and \(c=m^2-7m+14\). Therefore, \(D=4(m-4)^2-4(m^2-7m+14)=4(2-m)\). Setting \(D=0\) gives \(4(2-m)=0\), so \(m=2\). Exam tip: whenever equal roots are mentioned, immediately use the condition \(D=0\).
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Mathematics question. Chapter: Quadratic Equations. Topic: Nature of Roots.
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