Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
discriminant
Noun
/dɪsˈkrɪmɪnənt/
Definition
A value that helps determine the nature of the roots of a polynomial equation, particularly in quadratic equations.
Examples
- In the equation ax² + bx + c = 0, the discriminant is given by b² – 4ac.
- If the discriminant is positive, the quadratic equation has two distinct real roots.
- The discriminant can be used to quickly determine the nature of the solutions without directly solving the equation.
Meaning
In mathematics, particularly in algebra, the discriminant indicates whether a quadratic equation has two different real roots, one repeated real root, or no real roots.
Synonyms
- Excess
- Difference
