SOLUTION: If the relation y=mx^2+12x+9 has only one x-intercept, what is the value of m?

Algebra ->  Customizable Word Problem Solvers  -> Geometry -> SOLUTION: If the relation y=mx^2+12x+9 has only one x-intercept, what is the value of m?       Log On

Ad: Over 600 Algebra Word Problems at edhelper.com


    

Question 704715: If the relation y=mx^2+12x+9 has only one x-intercept, what is the value of m?

Answer by josgarithmetic(39617) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Relies on knowledge of the discriminant.

In general form, ax^2+bx+c=0, the discriminant is b^2-4ac. If b^2-4ac=0, then the function has exactly one intercept with the x axis. Your example discriminant is 12^2-4*m*19=0, therefore... m=36/19.
m=36%2F19