# Math Help - discriminant (fraction)

1. ## discriminant (fraction)

Find the set of values of $a$ for which the equation, $\frac{2x^2-4ax+a^2+8}{(x-a)^2}$ has 2 distinct roots.

While I know that this question can be solved by using $b^2-4ac>0$ using the equation $2x^2-4ax+a^2+8$, I do not understand why $(x-a)^2$ can be ignored. Why is it that only the top of the fraction is considered?

2. ## Re: discriminant (fraction)

Originally Posted by Punch
Find the set of values of $a$ for which the equation, $\frac{2x^2-4ax+a^2+8}{(x-a)^2}$ has 2 distinct roots.

While I know that this question can be solved by using $b^2-4ac>0$ using the equation $2x^2-4ax+a^2+8$, I do not understand why $(x-a)^2$ can be ignored. Why is it that only the top of the fraction is considered?
because $\frac{0}{any \, \, value \, \ne 0} = 0$

3. ## Re: discriminant (fraction)

You may ignore the bottom only at your peril!!

Before I thought I had a solution, I would want to know that x=a does NOT make the numerator vanish.

4. ## Re: discriminant (fraction)

However, your basic problem with finding "the set values of a for which the equation has 2 distinct roots" is that you don't has an equation!

What did the problem really say?

5. ## Re: discriminant (fraction)

Originally Posted by HallsofIvy
However, your basic problem with finding "the set values of a for which the equation has 2 distinct roots" is that you don't has an equation!

What did the problem really say?
The equation is as posted in post 1.