Probability
Tetrahedral Die — Quadratic with Real Roots
nta_pyq_2024_apr
Grade 12

Question:

Let $a$, $b$ and $c$ denote the outcome of three independent rolls of a fair tetrahedral die, whose four faces are marked 1, 2, 3, 4. If the probability that $ax^2+bx+c=0$ has all real roots is $\frac{m}{n}$, $\gcd(m,n)=1$, then $m+n$ is equal to

Step-by-Step Solution

Key Concept: $a,b,c\in\{1,2,3,4\}$. Need $b^2-4ac\geq0$. Total outcomes $=4^3=64$. Count cases for each value of $b$.
12 favourable cases. $p=3/16$. $m+n=19$.
Correct Answer: 19

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