Advanced MathVery hardThe single root when the discriminant is zero
Advanced Math practice question
The equation x² − 6x + c = 0, where c is a constant, has exactly one real solution. What is that solution?
Answer: 3
One solution means a perfect square: (x − 3)² = 0, so c = 9 and x = 3.
Common wrong answers
- If you answered 6
- 6 is the sum of the two equal roots.
- If you answered 9
- 9 is c, not the solution.
- If you answered -3
- −3 has the wrong sign; (x + 3)² would need +6x.
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