Skip to main content

Probability Riddle Using Python: Probability of Quadratic Equation Having No Distinct Positive Roots

Image
By

 Riddle:

An ordered pair ( b , c ) of integers, each of which has absolute value less than or equal to five, is chosen at random, with each such ordered pair having an equal likelihood of being chosen. What is the probability that the equation x^ 2 + bx + c = 0 will not have distinct positive real roots?


Python Solution:



Riddle source:

https://artofproblemsolving.com/wiki/index.php/1979_AHSME_Problems/Problem_27