Analyzing the Setup
We are investigating the quadratic equation x2−px+45p=0, where p is an integer in the interval [0,10]. Our objective is to determine the maximum value of p that ensures the roots of this equation are rational.
The Discriminant's Secret
For a quadratic equation with rational coefficients to have rational roots, its discriminant D=b2−4ac must be a perfect square. Given a=1, b=−p, and c=45p, we calculate the discriminant as follows:
Simplifying this expression, the factors of 4 cancel out, yielding:
We require D=k2 for some non-negative integer k.
The Hunt for p
We test integer values of p within the interval [0,10], starting from the maximum value to find the largest p that satisfies the condition.
If p=10, then D=102−5(10)=100−50=50. Since 50 is not a perfect square, p=10 is not the solution.
If p=9, then D=92−5(9)=81−45=36. Because 36=62, the condition is satisfied. Thus, the maximum integer value is p=9.
Visualizing the Geometry
With p=9, the problem shifts to finding the area of the region defined by 0≤y≤(x−9)2 and 0≤x≤9.
This region is bounded by the parabola y=(x−9)2 and the x-axis. The curve has its vertex at (9,0) and intersects the y-axis at (0,81).
The Calculus of Victory
To calculate the area A under the curve, we evaluate the definite integral:
Applying the power rule for integration, we obtain:
Evaluating at the boundaries using the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus:
A=0−(3−729)=0−(−243)=243
The final area of the region is 243 square units.