Discriminant

Pronunciation: /dɪˈskrɪmɪnənt/

Definitions of discriminant

noun a mathematical expression used in algebra to determine the nature of the roots of a quadratic equation

Example Sentences

A1 The discriminant is a mathematical term used in quadratic equations.

A2 To find the discriminant of a quadratic equation, you need to calculate b^2 - 4ac.

B1 Understanding the discriminant helps determine the nature of roots in a quadratic equation.

B2 The discriminant can be positive, negative, or zero, indicating different scenarios for the quadratic equation.

C1 Mathematicians use the discriminant to analyze the properties of quadratic functions.

C2 Advanced algebra students are expected to master the concept of discriminant in quadratic equations.

Examples of discriminant in a Sentence

formal The discriminant of a quadratic equation helps determine the nature of its roots.

informal The discriminant tells us if the quadratic equation has real roots or not.

slang The discriminant is like a math detective that helps us solve quadratic equations.

figurative Just like a compass points us in the right direction, the discriminant guides us in solving quadratic equations.

Grammatical Forms of discriminant

• past tense: discriminated
• plural: discriminants
• comparative: more discriminant
• superlative: most discriminant
• present tense: discriminates
• future tense: will discriminate
• perfect tense: has discriminated
• continuous tense: is discriminating
• singular: discriminant
• positive degree: discriminant
• infinitive: to discriminate
• gerund: discriminating
• participle: discriminating

Origin and Evolution of discriminant

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'discriminant' originated from the Latin word 'discriminare', meaning to distinguish or differentiate.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in mathematics to refer to a function of the coefficients of a polynomial equation that gives information about the roots of the equation. Over time, the term 'discriminant' has also been used in various fields such as sociology, law, and psychology to denote differentiation or distinction based on certain criteria.