The Discriminant, $b² - 4ac$, is super important when we use the quadratic formula. Let’s break down why it matters:

1. Tells Us About the Roots:

   • If $b² - 4ac > 0$: There are two different real roots.
   • If $b² - 4ac = 0$: There’s one real root (it’s a repeated root).
   • If $b² - 4ac < 0$: There are no real roots (we have complex roots).

2. Helps Us Solve Problems:

   • Knowing how many roots we have and what type they are helps us understand the graph of the quadratic function.
   • This information changes how we solve the equation, which is really important for us in Year 10!