Question

For what values of p does px^2+(2p+1)x+p=0. Have equal roots show all working will give medal

Answer 1

well you need to use the discriminant..

which is

\[\Delta = b^2 - 4ac\]

for equal roots you have the discriminant set to zero

so

\[b^2 - 4ac = 0\]

in your question

a = p, b = (2p + 1) and c = p

just substitute and then solve for p

hope this helps..

Answer 2

the equal roots means that the quadratic is a perfect square.

and the discriminant is part of the general quadratic formula.