PSAT Math : How to find a solution set

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for PSAT Math

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Example Questions

Example Question #11 : How To Find A Solution Set

Which of the following is true of the solution set of the equation  ?

Possible Answers:

The solution set comprises two irrational numbers.

The solution set comprises two rational numbers.

The solution set comprises one irrational number.

The solution set comprises two imaginary numbers.

The solution set comprises one rational number.

Correct answer:

The solution set comprises two imaginary numbers.

Explanation:

First, since the equation is quadratic, put it in standard form 

as follows:

To determine the nature of the solution set, evaluate discriminant  for :

The discriminant is negative, so the solution set comprises two imaginary numbers.

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