College Algebra CLEP Prep Practice Exam

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What is the value of the discriminant in the equation x^2 + 5x + 6 = 0?

6
11
-6
-11

The correct answer is: 11

The discriminant is a mathematical term that is used to determine the number and type of solutions to a quadratic equation. In this case, the discriminant is equal to b^2 - 4ac, where a, b, and c are the coefficients in x^2 + 5x + 6 = 0. Plugging in the values, we get b^2 - 4ac = 5^2 - 4(1)(6) = 25 - 24 = 1. Since the discriminant is positive (1), there are two real solutions to the equation. Looking at the choices, only B has a positive value and therefore, is the correct answer. The options A, C, and D all have negative values, which do not accurately reflect the value of the discriminant in this equation.