November 24, 2022

Quadratic Equation Formula, Examples

If you going to try to solve quadratic equations, we are thrilled about your journey in mathematics! This is actually where the fun starts!

The details can look too much at first. However, offer yourself some grace and room so there’s no pressure or stress while working through these questions. To be competent at quadratic equations like a pro, 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 math equation that states distinct 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 simply an algebraic equation described like a linear equation. It ordinarily has two solutions and uses intricate roots to work out them, one positive root and one negative, employing the quadratic equation. Unraveling both the roots will be equal to zero.

Meaning of a Quadratic Equation

First, 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 employ this formula to figure out x if we replace these terms into the quadratic equation! (We’ll subsequently check it.)

Any quadratic equations can be written like this, which makes working them out easy, relatively speaking.

Example of a quadratic equation

Let’s contrast the following 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. Thus, linked to the quadratic formula, we can surely state this is a quadratic equation.

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

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

How to Work on a Quadratic Equation Utilizing the Quadratic Formula

While quadratic equations may look very complicated initially, they can be broken down into several simple steps employing a simple formula. The formula for figuring out quadratic equations consists of creating the equal terms and utilizing basic algebraic functions like multiplication and division to obtain 2 solutions.

After all functions have been executed, we can solve for the units of the variable. The solution take us another step closer to find solutions to our actual problem.

Steps to Working on a Quadratic Equation Utilizing the Quadratic Formula

Let’s promptly put in the original quadratic equation again so we don’t omit what it seems like

ax2 + bx + c=0

Prior to figuring out anything, remember to isolate the variables on one side of the equation. Here are the 3 steps to work on a quadratic equation.

Step 1: Write the equation in standard mode.

If there are terms on both sides of the equation, sum all equivalent terms on one side, so the left-hand side of the equation is equivalent to zero, just like the standard mode of a quadratic equation.

Step 2: Factor the equation if feasible

The standard equation you will end up with should be factored, usually utilizing the perfect square method. If it isn’t workable, plug the variables in the quadratic formula, which will be your best friend for solving quadratic equations. The quadratic formula appears similar to this:

x=-bb2-4ac2a

All the terms coincide to the equivalent terms in a conventional form of a quadratic equation. You’ll be utilizing this significantly, so it pays to remember it.

Step 3: Implement the zero product rule and solve the linear equation to discard possibilities.

Now once you possess 2 terms equal to zero, solve them to achieve 2 answers for x. We have 2 results because the solution for a square root can either be positive or negative.

Example 1

2x2 + 4x - x2 = 5

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

x2 + 4x - 5 = 0

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

a=1

b=4

c=-5

To solve quadratic equations, let's put this into the quadratic formula and solve for “+/-” to involve 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

Now, let’s simplify 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 result! You can check your work 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

This is it! You've figured out your first quadratic equation using the quadratic formula! Kudos!

Example 2

Let's check out one more example.

3x2 + 13x = 10


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


3x2 + 13x - 10 = 0


To work on this, we will substitute in the numbers like this:

a = 3

b = 13

c = -10


Solve for x using the quadratic formula!

x=-bb2-4ac2a

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


Let’s streamline this as far as workable by working it out exactly like we performed in the last example. Work out all simple equations step by step.


x=-13169-(-120)6

x=-132896


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

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

x=46 x=-306

x=23 x=-5



Now, you have your solution! You can check your work through 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 work out quadratic equations like nobody’s business with some practice and patience!


Granted this summary of quadratic equations and their rudimental formula, learners can now go head on against this complex topic with confidence. By beginning with this simple definitions, children acquire a strong grasp ahead of moving on to more intricate ideas ahead in their studies.

Grade Potential Can Assist You with the Quadratic Equation

If you are battling to get a grasp these concepts, you might require a math teacher to guide you. It is better to ask for help before you trail behind.

With Grade Potential, you can understand all the handy tricks to ace your next math examination. Become a confident quadratic equation solver so you are prepared for the ensuing big concepts in your mathematics studies.