November 24, 2022

Quadratic Equation Formula, Examples

If you going to try to figure out quadratic equations, we are excited regarding your journey in mathematics! This is actually where the most interesting things begins!

The information can appear enormous at start. However, give yourself some grace and space so there’s no hurry or strain while figuring out these problems. To be efficient at quadratic equations like a pro, you will require understanding, patience, and a sense of humor.

Now, let’s begin learning!

What Is the Quadratic Equation?

At its center, a quadratic equation is a math formula that states distinct scenarios in which the rate of change is quadratic or proportional to the square of some variable.

However it may look like an abstract concept, it is just an algebraic equation expressed like a linear equation. It generally has two solutions and utilizes complex roots to solve them, one positive root and one negative, using the quadratic formula. Solving both the roots the answer to which will be zero.

Definition of a Quadratic Equation

Foremost, keep in mind that a quadratic expression is a polynomial equation that comprises of a quadratic function. It is a second-degree equation, and its standard form is:

ax2 + bx + c

Where “a,” “b,” and “c” are variables. We can employ this equation to solve for x if we replace these variables into the quadratic equation! (We’ll look at it next.)

Any quadratic equations can be written like this, that makes figuring them out straightforward, relatively speaking.

Example of a quadratic equation

Let’s compare the following equation to the previous formula:

x2 + 5x + 6 = 0

As we can see, there are two variables and an independent term, and one of the variables is squared. Consequently, linked to the quadratic equation, we can confidently tell this is a quadratic equation.

Generally, you can observe these types of formulas when measuring a parabola, which is a U-shaped curve that can be graphed on an XY axis with the data that a quadratic equation provides us.

Now that we understand what quadratic equations are and what they appear like, let’s move forward to figuring them out.

How to Figure out a Quadratic Equation Employing the Quadratic Formula

Even though quadratic equations may appear very complex when starting, they can be cut down into several easy steps using a simple formula. The formula for solving quadratic equations includes creating the equal terms and applying basic algebraic functions like multiplication and division to achieve two solutions.

After all operations have been executed, we can work out the values of the variable. The solution take us another step closer to discover solutions to our first question.

Steps to Solving a Quadratic Equation Employing the Quadratic Formula

Let’s quickly place in the original quadratic equation again so we don’t forget what it looks like

ax2 + bx + c=0

Ahead of figuring out anything, keep in mind to isolate the variables on one side of the equation. Here are the three steps to figuring out a quadratic equation.

Step 1: Note the equation in conventional mode.

If there are variables on either side of the equation, add all equivalent terms on one side, so the left-hand side of the equation is equivalent to zero, just like the standard model of a quadratic equation.

Step 2: Factor the equation if possible

The standard equation you will conclude with must be factored, usually through the perfect square process. If it isn’t workable, plug the variables in the quadratic formula, which will be your best buddy for solving quadratic equations. The quadratic formula looks something like this:

x=-bb2-4ac2a

Every terms responds to the same terms in a conventional form of a quadratic equation. You’ll be employing this a great deal, so it pays to remember it.

Step 3: Apply the zero product rule and work out the linear equation to eliminate possibilities.

Now once you possess 2 terms equivalent to zero, work on them to attain two results for x. We have 2 results due to the fact that the solution for a square root can either be negative or positive.

Example 1

2x2 + 4x - x2 = 5

At the moment, let’s piece down this equation. First, simplify and put it in the standard form.

x2 + 4x - 5 = 0

Next, let's recognize the terms. If we compare these to a standard quadratic equation, we will find the coefficients of x as ensuing:

a=1

b=4

c=-5

To solve quadratic equations, let's plug this into the quadratic formula and find the solution “+/-” to include both square root.

x=-bb2-4ac2a

x=-442-(4*1*-5)2*1

We solve the second-degree equation to achieve:

x=-416+202

x=-4362

After this, let’s clarify the square root to attain two linear equations and work out:

x=-4+62 x=-4-62

x = 1 x = -5


Next, you have your answers! You can review your workings by checking these terms with the initial equation.


12 + (4*1) - 5 = 0

1 + 4 - 5 = 0

Or

-52 + (4*-5) - 5 = 0

25 - 20 - 5 = 0

That's it! You've solved your first quadratic equation using the quadratic formula! Kudos!

Example 2

Let's check out another example.

3x2 + 13x = 10


First, put it in the standard form so it is equivalent 0.


3x2 + 13x - 10 = 0


To work on this, we will put in the values like this:

a = 3

b = 13

c = -10


Work out x employing the quadratic formula!

x=-bb2-4ac2a

x=-13132-(4*3x-10)2*3


Let’s simplify this as much as possible by figuring it out exactly like we executed in the last example. Figure out all simple equations step by step.


x=-13169-(-120)6

x=-132896


You can figure out x by taking the positive and negative square roots.

x=-13+176 x=-13-176

x=46 x=-306

x=23 x=-5



Now, you have your result! You can revise your work using substitution.

3*(2/3)2 + (13*2/3) - 10 = 0

4/3 + 26/3 - 10 = 0

30/3 - 10 = 0

10 - 10 = 0

Or

3*-52 + (13*-5) - 10 = 0

75 - 65 - 10 =0


And this is it! You will figure out quadratic equations like a pro with a bit of practice and patience!


Granted this summary of quadratic equations and their fundamental formula, learners can now tackle this difficult topic with assurance. By opening with this straightforward definitions, children secure a solid understanding ahead of moving on to further complicated ideas ahead in their academics.

Grade Potential Can Guide You with the Quadratic Equation

If you are fighting to understand these ideas, you might need a mathematics instructor to help you. It is better to ask for assistance before you trail behind.

With Grade Potential, you can study all the tips and tricks to ace your subsequent mathematics test. Grow into a confident quadratic equation problem solver so you are prepared for the ensuing big theories in your mathematics studies.