Choice A is the correct answer. The discriminant determines the number of real roots.

• $\Delta > 0$: Two distinct roots (crosses twice).
• $\Delta = 0$: One repeated root (touches once).
• $\Delta < 0$: No real roots (does not cross).

Choice B is incorrect because that requires positive discriminant. Choice C is incorrect because that requires negative discriminant. Choice D is incorrect because it is quadratic.