Multiple choice

If p and q are positive then the roots of the equation $x^2-px-q=0$ are-

  1. imaginary

  2. real & both positive

  3. real & both negative

  4. real & of opposite sign

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

For x^2 - px - q = 0, the discriminant D = (-p)^2 - 4(1)(-q) = p^2 + 4q. Since p and q are positive, D > 0, so roots are real. The product of roots is -q. Since q > 0, the product is negative, meaning the roots have opposite signs.

AI explanation

The discriminant of the quadratic equation is p squared plus 4q. Since p and q are both positive, the discriminant is strictly greater than zero, meaning the roots are real. The product of the roots equals q divided by 1, which is negative, meaning the roots must have opposite signs. The result is real and of opposite sign.