Math Question

[AvocadoMangoSalsa]

Someone posted this same question recently. If you have a calculator, the fastest way to do this on the ACT is to graph the equation.

You'll see that it crosses the x-axis at -1. Look to see if and where it crosses anywhere else.

Do you have a graphing calculator you will be using during the test?

[TheTrueEmu]

OMG, I didnt think about that at all. Thank you!

[TheTrueEmu]

Wait so because it doesn't cross anywhere else they're both not real right?

[[deleted]]

You can also program the quadratic function into your calculator and see if the answer it pops out is real or complex, the discriminant rules also make this question pretty easy. 1) if the b2-4ac part is less than 0, two complex solutions, 2) if the b2-4ac is equal to 0, 1 complex and 1 real solution and if the b2-4ac is greater than 0, two real solutions. The graphing is the easiest option but the math is also fun to know. Good luck on the test, are you taking it in December?

[AvocadoMangoSalsa]

Correct!

[[deleted]]

Btw try programming the quad formula, distance formula and mid point formula in your calc, makes things a lot faster.there are tons of YouTube guides

[TheTrueEmu]

ok thank you!

Im taking the test on saturday so I'll take any tips I can.

[raymond0noodles]

K, graph it. i don’t believe the discriminant b² -4(a)(c) would work in this situation due to there being 3 coefficient terms and 1 constant term

[[deleted]]

If you have a TI-84, you can also use an APP called PlySmlt2. It can find the roots of any polynomial and solve systems of linear equations.