If \( a \) and \( b \) are the non-zero distinct roots of \( x^2 + ax + b = 0 \), then the minimum value of \( x^2 + ax + b \) is:
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The vertex of any quadratic \( y = Ax^2 + Bx + C \) occurs at \( x = -B/2A \). Substituting this \( x \) back into the original equation always yields the minimum (if \( A>0 \)) or maximum (if \( A<0 \)) value.