To analyze the equation \( y = x^2 + 4 \), we can first look at how it interacts with the x-axis.
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Graph Interaction with the X-axis:
The equation \( y = x^2 + 4 \) is a parabola that opens upwards. To find when it intersects the x-axis, we set \( y = 0 \):
\[ 0 = x^2 + 4 \]
Solving for \( x^2 \):
\[ x^2 = -4 \]
This equation has no real solutions since \( x^2 \) cannot be negative. Therefore, the graph does not cross or touch the x-axis.
Answer: The graph does not cross or touch the x-axis.
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Nature of the Solutions:
Since the graph does not touch or cross the x-axis, this indicates that the equation has no real solutions. Instead, the solutions are complex.
Answer: The equation has 2 complex solutions.