November 24, 2022

Quadratic Equation Formula, Examples

If this is your first try to figure out quadratic equations, we are thrilled about your adventure in math! This is really where the fun begins!

The data can look enormous at start. However, offer yourself some grace and space so there’s no hurry or strain while figuring out these problems. To master quadratic equations like a professional, you will need understanding, patience, and a sense of humor.

Now, let’s start learning!

What Is the Quadratic Equation?

At its core, a quadratic equation is a mathematical formula that describes various situations in which the rate of deviation is quadratic or proportional to the square of few variable.

Though it may look similar to an abstract idea, it is just an algebraic equation expressed like a linear equation. It generally has two solutions and uses complicated roots to solve them, one positive root and one negative, employing the quadratic formula. Solving both the roots should equal zero.

Definition of a Quadratic Equation

Foremost, bear in mind that a quadratic expression is a polynomial equation that includes 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 utilize this formula to solve for x if we plug these variables into the quadratic formula! (We’ll go through it later.)

All quadratic equations can be written like this, that makes solving them straightforward, relatively speaking.

Example of a quadratic equation

Let’s contrast the ensuing equation to the previous formula:

x2 + 5x + 6 = 0

As we can observe, there are 2 variables and an independent term, and one of the variables is squared. Consequently, compared to the quadratic formula, we can assuredly tell this is a quadratic equation.

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

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

How to Solve a Quadratic Equation Using the Quadratic Formula

Although quadratic equations might seem very complicated when starting, they can be broken down into few easy steps employing an easy formula. The formula for solving quadratic equations consists of setting the equal terms and using rudimental algebraic operations like multiplication and division to obtain two results.

After all functions have been carried out, we can solve for the numbers of the variable. The solution take us one step closer to discover result to our first question.

Steps to Solving a Quadratic Equation Using the Quadratic Formula

Let’s quickly plug in the common quadratic equation once more so we don’t overlook what it seems like

ax2 + bx + c=0

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

Step 1: Write the equation in conventional mode.

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

Step 2: Factor the equation if possible

The standard equation you will wind up with must be factored, generally utilizing the perfect square method. If it isn’t workable, plug the variables in the quadratic formula, which will be your closest friend for figuring out quadratic equations. The quadratic formula appears something like this:

x=-bb2-4ac2a

All the terms responds to the equivalent terms in a conventional form of a quadratic equation. You’ll be utilizing this a lot, so it is smart move to memorize it.

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

Now once you possess two terms resulting in zero, work on them to get two answers for x. We get two results due to the fact that the answer for a square root can be both negative or positive.

Example 1

2x2 + 4x - x2 = 5

Now, let’s break down this equation. First, clarify and put it in the conventional form.

x2 + 4x - 5 = 0

Immediately, let's identify the terms. If we contrast these to a standard quadratic equation, we will identify the coefficients of x as ensuing:

a=1

b=4

c=-5

To work out quadratic equations, let's plug this into the quadratic formula and work out “+/-” to include each square root.

x=-bb2-4ac2a

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

We work on the second-degree equation to achieve:

x=-416+202

x=-4362

Next, let’s clarify the square root to attain two linear equations and figure out:

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

x = 1 x = -5


Now, you have your solution! You can review your workings by using these terms with the first 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 worked out your first quadratic equation utilizing the quadratic formula! Congratulations!

Example 2

Let's try one more example.

3x2 + 13x = 10


Initially, place it in the standard form so it results in 0.


3x2 + 13x - 10 = 0


To figure out this, we will plug in the numbers like this:

a = 3

b = 13

c = -10


Solve for x employing the quadratic formula!

x=-bb2-4ac2a

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


Let’s simplify this as far as possible by figuring it out just like we executed in the previous example. Figure out all easy equations step by step.


x=-13169-(-120)6

x=-132896


You can work out x by considering the negative and positive square roots.

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

x=46 x=-306

x=23 x=-5



Now, you have your solution! You can review your workings 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 that's it! You will work out quadratic equations like a pro with little patience and practice!


Granted this summary of quadratic equations and their fundamental formula, students can now tackle this difficult topic with faith. By starting with this straightforward definitions, kids acquire a solid grasp before undertaking more complex ideas ahead in their studies.

Grade Potential Can Help You with the Quadratic Equation

If you are struggling to understand these theories, you may need a math teacher to guide you. It is better to ask for assistance before you fall behind.

With Grade Potential, you can learn all the helpful hints to ace your subsequent mathematics exam. Turn into a confident quadratic equation solver so you are prepared for the ensuing complicated theories in your mathematics studies.