If \\(x^2-(2a+1)x+a(a+1)=0\\), where \\(a\\) is a real parameter, what will be the nature of its roots?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Two real and distinct roots, namely \\(a\\) and \\(a+1\\)
Here \\(A=1\\), \\(B=-(2a+1)\\), and \\(C=a(a+1)\\). Therefore, the discriminant is \\(D=B^2-4AC=(2a+1)^2-4a(a+1)=1\\). Since \\(D>0\\), the roots are real and distinct. In fact, the roots are \\(a\\) and \\(a+1\\). They cannot always be called rational or irrational, because that depends on the value of \\(a\\). Exam tip: simplify the discriminant first and then determine its sign.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Two real and distinct roots, namely \\(a\\) and \\(a+1\\)
Why is this the correct answer?
Here \\(A=1\\), \\(B=-(2a+1)\\), and \\(C=a(a+1)\\). Therefore, the discriminant is \\(D=B^2-4AC=(2a+1)^2-4a(a+1)=1\\). Since \\(D>0\\), the roots are real and distinct. In fact, the roots are \\(a\\) and \\(a+1\\). They cannot always be called rational or irrational, because that depends on the value of \\(a\\). Exam tip: simplify the discriminant first and then determine its sign.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Mathematics question. Chapter: Quadratic Equations. Topic: Nature of Roots.
Student feedback
Was this question useful?
👍 0 Helpful 👎 0 Not helpful
Yes 0% No 0%
0 responsesStudent Reviews
No published reviews yet.
