SAT Question 71014fb1: Nonlinear Equations In One Variable And Systems Of Equations In Two Variables answer and explanation with Desmos solution

Choice D is correct. Any quantity that is positive or negative in value has a positive value when squared. Therefore, the left-hand side of the given equation is either positive or zero for any value of $x$. Since the right-hand side of the given equation is negative, there is no value of $x$ for which the given equation is true. Thus, the number of distinct real solutions for the given equation is zero.

Choices A, B, and C are incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.