November 24, 2022

Quadratic Equation Formula, Examples

If you’re starting to solve quadratic equations, we are enthusiastic about your journey in mathematics! This is really where the amusing part begins!

The information can appear overwhelming at start. Despite that, provide yourself some grace and room so there’s no rush or stress while solving these questions. To master quadratic equations like a professional, you will need patience, understanding, and a sense of humor.

Now, let’s start learning!

What Is the Quadratic Equation?

At its center, a quadratic equation is a mathematical formula that states different scenarios in which the rate of deviation is quadratic or relative to the square of few variable.

However it seems like an abstract concept, it is just an algebraic equation described like a linear equation. It ordinarily has two results and uses intricate roots to solve them, one positive root and one negative, using the quadratic equation. Unraveling both the roots will be equal to zero.

Definition of a Quadratic Equation

First, keep in mind that a quadratic expression is a polynomial equation that consist of a quadratic function. It is a second-degree equation, and its conventional form is:

ax2 + bx + c

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

Any quadratic equations can be scripted like this, which makes solving them straightforward, relatively speaking.

Example of a quadratic equation

Let’s compare the following equation to the subsequent equation:

x2 + 5x + 6 = 0

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

Commonly, you can observe these types of equations when measuring a parabola, which is a U-shaped curve that can be plotted on an XY axis with the information that a quadratic equation provides us.

Now that we know what quadratic equations are and what they appear like, let’s move on to working them out.

How to Solve a Quadratic Equation Using the Quadratic Formula

While quadratic equations might appear very intricate when starting, they can be divided into several simple steps employing a simple formula. The formula for solving quadratic equations involves creating the equal terms and using rudimental algebraic functions like multiplication and division to obtain two answers.

Once all functions have been performed, we can figure out the values of the variable. The results take us another step closer to find result to our actual question.

Steps to Solving a Quadratic Equation Utilizing the Quadratic Formula

Let’s quickly place in the original quadratic equation once more so we don’t overlook what it looks like

ax2 + bx + c=0

Ahead of solving anything, bear in mind to detach the variables on one side of the equation. Here are the three steps to solve a quadratic equation.

Step 1: Write the equation in standard mode.

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

Step 2: Factor the equation if possible

The standard equation you will conclude with must be factored, usually utilizing the perfect square method. If it isn’t possible, plug the variables in the quadratic formula, which will be your best buddy for figuring out quadratic equations. The quadratic formula looks like this:

x=-bb2-4ac2a

All the terms responds to the identical terms in a standard form of a quadratic equation. You’ll be using this a great deal, so it pays to remember it.

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

Now that you possess 2 terms resulting in zero, work on them to attain two results for x. We possess 2 results because the answer for a square root can be both positive or negative.

Example 1

2x2 + 4x - x2 = 5

At the moment, let’s piece down this equation. Primarily, clarify and place it in the standard form.

x2 + 4x - 5 = 0

Now, let's determine the terms. If we compare these to a standard quadratic equation, we will find the coefficients of x as follows:

a=1

b=4

c=-5

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

Next, let’s simplify the square root to obtain two linear equations and solve:

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

x = 1 x = -5


After that, you have your result! You can check your solution by checking these terms with the original 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 try another example.

3x2 + 13x = 10


Let’s begin, put it in the standard form so it equals 0.


3x2 + 13x - 10 = 0


To solve this, we will substitute in the numbers like this:

a = 3

b = 13

c = -10


Solve for x utilizing the quadratic formula!

x=-bb2-4ac2a

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


Let’s clarify this as far as feasible by solving it exactly like we executed in the previous 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 check 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 professional with little practice and patience!


With this summary of quadratic equations and their fundamental formula, students can now tackle this complex topic with faith. By beginning with this straightforward explanation, children secure a solid grasp prior moving on to further complex ideas ahead in their academics.

Grade Potential Can Assist You with the Quadratic Equation

If you are fighting to get a grasp these theories, you might need a math instructor to help you. It is better to ask for assistance before you fall behind.

With Grade Potential, you can understand all the helpful hints to ace your subsequent math exam. Become a confident quadratic equation solver so you are ready for the ensuing complicated ideas in your mathematics studies.