Use the discriminant to determine the number and type of solutions of the equation.
-$$x ^ { 2 } - 4 x - 1 = 0$$
A) One real solution
B) Two complex but not real solutions
C) Two real solutions

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The discriminant of a quadratic equation $ax^2 + bx + c = 0$ is given by $b^2 - 4ac$. For the given equation, $a = 1$, $b = -4$, and $c = -1$, so the discriminant is $(-4)^2 - 4(1)(-1) = 16 + 4 = 20$. Since the discriminant is positive, the equation has two real solutions.

Use the Discriminant to Determine the Number and Type of Solutions