SOLUTION: The graph of a quadratic function can have 0, 1, or 2 x-intercepts. How can you predict the number of such intercepts without drawing the graph or completely solving the equation?

Algebra ->  Algebra  -> Quadratic Equations and Parabolas -> SOLUTION: The graph of a quadratic function can have 0, 1, or 2 x-intercepts. How can you predict the number of such intercepts without drawing the graph or completely solving the equation?      Log On

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Question 85: The graph of a quadratic function can have 0, 1, or 2 x-intercepts. How can you predict the number of such intercepts without drawing the graph or completely solving the equation?
Answer by ichudov(499) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Remember that an intercept of the quadratic graph is the same as the root of quadratic equation. It is the same thing. You can find out the discriminant b%5E2-4ac. You know that if the discriminant is positive, you have two roots, hence, two intercepts. If it is zero, there is one root, one intercept. If it is negative, there are no roots and no intercepts.