November 24, 2022

Quadratic Equation Formula, Examples

If this is your first try to work on quadratic equations, we are thrilled about your venture in math! This is really where the most interesting things starts!

The details can look overwhelming at start. However, give yourself some grace and space so there’s no rush or stress while figuring out 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 math equation that describes different situations in which the rate of deviation is quadratic or proportional to the square of few variable.

However it seems like an abstract theory, it is simply an algebraic equation expressed like a linear equation. It usually has two results and utilizes complex roots to figure out them, one positive root and one negative, using the quadratic equation. Solving both the roots should equal zero.

Meaning of a Quadratic Equation

Foremost, 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 standard form is:

ax2 + bx + c

Where “a,” “b,” and “c” are variables. We can use this formula to figure out x if we replace these variables into the quadratic equation! (We’ll subsequently check it.)

Ever 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 subsequent equation:

x2 + 5x + 6 = 0

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

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

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

How to Solve a Quadratic Equation Employing the Quadratic Formula

Although quadratic equations might look greatly complex when starting, they can be divided into several easy steps utilizing a straightforward formula. The formula for solving quadratic equations includes setting the equal terms and utilizing rudimental algebraic functions like multiplication and division to obtain two results.

Once all operations have been performed, we can solve for the values of the variable. The results take us single step nearer to find answer to our actual question.

Steps to Solving a Quadratic Equation Utilizing the Quadratic Formula

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

ax2 + bx + c=0

Prior to solving anything, keep in mind to separate the variables on one side of the equation. Here are the 3 steps to solve a quadratic equation.

Step 1: Write the equation in conventional mode.

If there are variables on either side of the equation, total all equivalent terms on one side, so the left-hand side of the equation totals to zero, just like the conventional mode of a quadratic equation.

Step 2: Factor the equation if workable

The standard equation you will wind up with must be factored, usually using the perfect square method. If it isn’t possible, replace the variables in the quadratic formula, which will be your best friend for working out quadratic equations. The quadratic formula appears like this:

x=-bb2-4ac2a

Every terms correspond to the equivalent terms in a standard form of a quadratic equation. You’ll be using this a lot, so it is wise to remember it.

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

Now that you possess 2 terms equivalent to zero, solve them to achieve two results for x. We get 2 results because the answer for a square root can be both negative or positive.

Example 1

2x2 + 4x - x2 = 5

Now, let’s piece down this equation. First, streamline and put it in the standard form.

x2 + 4x - 5 = 0

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

a=1

b=4

c=-5

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

x=-bb2-4ac2a

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

We work on the second-degree equation to get:

x=-416+202

x=-4362

After this, 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 answers! You can review 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 utilizing the quadratic formula! Congratulations!

Example 2

Let's try one more example.

3x2 + 13x = 10


Let’s begin, place it in the standard form so it is equivalent zero.


3x2 + 13x - 10 = 0


To solve this, we will plug in the values like this:

a = 3

b = 13

c = -10


figure out x employing the quadratic formula!

x=-bb2-4ac2a

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


Let’s clarify this as much as feasible by solving it just like we executed in the previous example. Solve all easy equations step by step.


x=-13169-(-120)6

x=-132896


You can solve for 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 review 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 solve quadratic equations like a professional with a bit of practice and patience!


With this overview of quadratic equations and their basic formula, learners can now take on this difficult topic with confidence. By opening with this easy explanation, children gain a strong foundation before taking on more complicated concepts later in their academics.

Grade Potential Can Help You with the Quadratic Equation

If you are battling to understand these concepts, you might require a mathematics tutor to assist you. It is better to ask for guidance before you lag behind.

With Grade Potential, you can understand all the handy tricks to ace your subsequent mathematics exam. Grow into a confident quadratic equation problem solver so you are ready for the following big ideas in your mathematical studies.