If a+b+c=0, then the quadratic eqn "3a(x ^2 )+ 2bx + c = 0 " has (A)real and different roots (B)imaginary roots (C)rational roots (D)real and equal roots (E)None of the above

is this even a GMAT problem? I have never encountered anything pertaining to real/imaginary numbers in any of my prep... maybe i just haven't gotten that far yet

I think this type of problem never gonna bump in GMAT real test. Its a real tough question. If in any case it flashes on screen its hard luck...

money9111 wrote:is this even a GMAT problem? I have never encountered anything pertaining to real/imaginary numbers in any of my prep... maybe i just haven't gotten that far yet I do not think this is anyway near a Real GMAT problem, I choose to ignore it in my preps

good idea... question - harsh.champ when you post questions that aren't GMATquestions can you let us know upfront? I think that might clarify things a bit more... thanks

money9111 wrote:good idea... question - harsh.champ when you post questions that aren't GMATquestions can you let us know upfront? I think that might clarify things a bit more... thanks Hey money9111, You are right that this is not one of the GMAT questions.I had just posted this as a challenge question that requires brainstorming.Form the next time,I will surely write "Challenge Question" in bracket.I guess then people will see the question in a different light.Thanks!! All said and done,can anybody come up with the soln. approach?[Calling the math whizsss over here:)]

Not that difficult. a + b + c = 0 ....1 and equation is 3a(x ^2 )+ 2bx + c = 0 ....2 Lets assume A = 1 , B = 2 , C = -3 , hence equation one is satisfied. Put in these values in equation 2 3(x ^2 )+ 4x - 3 = 0 Roots of the equation aX^2 + bx + c =0 are - b +/- squar root (b^2 - 4ac)/2a Which gives... -4 +/- sq root (-20)/ 6 or -4 +/- sq root 20i /6 Hence answer is... Imaginary Roots B