WebQuest

The Discriminant: the Inside Scoop of the Quadratic Equation

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Discriminants and Roots

Answer the following question regarding the discriminant of a quadratic equation. One point for each correct response.

Question #1

When the discriminant is positive, how many roots exist?

a) 1

b) 2

c) 3

d) 0

Question #2

When the discriminant is zero, how many roots are there?

a) 1

b) 2

c) 3

d) 0

Question #3

When the discriminant is negative, how many roots are there?

a) 1

b) 2

c) 3

d) 0

Question #4

Why is a negative discriminant indicative of zero roots?

a) There are no negative numbers that can be roots of a quadratic equation.

b) A negative discriminant means the graph is upside-down, and the roots all empty out.

c) If the discriminant is negative, all the function values are positive.

d) A negative discriminant cancels the linear term.

e) None of the above.

Question #5

Is it worth the time to evaluate the discriminant before using the quadratic formula, or should it all be done at once, and why?

a) No, just go ahead and solve the quadratic formula.

b) No, the extra time is a waste, evaluating the quadratic will show how many roots there are.

c) Yes, if the extra step is taken, the results are less prone to error.

d) Yes, if the discriminant is negative, the equation doesn't have any roots, plus the discriminant has to be calculated as part of the quadratic formula anyway.

e) There is no advantage either way.

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WebQuest

The Discriminant: the Inside Scoop of the Quadratic Equation

Discriminants and Roots

Question #1

Question #2

Question #3

Question #4

Question #5

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