November 24, 2022

Quadratic Equation Formula, Examples

If you’re starting to solve quadratic equations, we are excited about your adventure in mathematics! This is indeed where the amusing part starts!

The data can appear enormous at first. Despite that, offer yourself a bit of grace and space so there’s no rush or strain when 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 start learning!

What Is the Quadratic Equation?

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

Though it may look like an abstract concept, it is simply an algebraic equation described like a linear equation. It ordinarily has two results and utilizes complicated roots to solve them, one positive root and one negative, employing the quadratic equation. Unraveling both the roots the answer to which will be zero.

Definition of a Quadratic Equation

Foremost, remember that a quadratic expression is a polynomial equation that includes a quadratic function. It is a second-degree equation, and its usual form is:

ax2 + bx + c

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

All quadratic equations can be written like this, that makes working them out straightforward, comparatively 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 2 variables and an independent term, and one of the variables is squared. Therefore, linked to the quadratic equation, we can assuredly state this is a quadratic equation.

Usually, you can observe these kinds of equations when scaling a parabola, that is a U-shaped curve that can be plotted on an XY axis with the data that a quadratic equation provides us.

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

How to Work on a Quadratic Equation Utilizing the Quadratic Formula

Even though quadratic equations may seem greatly complicated initially, they can be cut down into multiple easy steps employing a simple formula. The formula for solving quadratic equations consists of creating the equal terms and utilizing rudimental algebraic functions like multiplication and division to get two solutions.

After all operations have been performed, we can solve for the units of the variable. The results take us another step closer to work out the result to our original problem.

Steps to Solving a Quadratic Equation Utilizing the Quadratic Formula

Let’s quickly plug in the general quadratic equation once more so we don’t omit what it looks like

ax2 + bx + c=0

Ahead of figuring out anything, bear in mind to separate the variables on one side of the equation. Here are the 3 steps to work on a quadratic equation.

Step 1: Note the equation in standard mode.

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

Step 2: Factor the equation if feasible

The standard equation you will conclude with should be factored, generally using the perfect square process. If it isn’t feasible, replace the variables in the quadratic formula, that will be your best friend for figuring out quadratic equations. The quadratic formula seems something like this:

x=-bb2-4ac2a

All the terms correspond to the identical terms in a standard form of a quadratic equation. You’ll be using this significantly, so it is smart move to memorize it.

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

Now that you have two terms equal to zero, work on them to get 2 answers for x. We get 2 answers 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 piece down this equation. First, streamline and place it in the conventional form.

x2 + 4x - 5 = 0

Immediately, let's determine the terms. If we compare these to a standard quadratic equation, we will identify 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 include each square root.

x=-bb2-4ac2a

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

We figure out the second-degree equation to get:

x=-416+202

x=-4362

Now, let’s simplify the square root to obtain two linear equations and work out:

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

x = 1 x = -5


Now, you have your result! You can review your work by checking 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! Congrats!

Example 2

Let's work on one more example.

3x2 + 13x = 10


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


3x2 + 13x - 10 = 0


To figure out this, we will put in the figures 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 streamline this as much as possible by figuring it out exactly like we performed in the last example. Figure 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 review 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 that's it! You will figure out quadratic equations like a professional with a bit of patience and practice!


With this summary of quadratic equations and their basic formula, learners can now tackle this difficult topic with faith. By opening with this simple explanation, learners secure a solid grasp ahead of taking on further intricate theories ahead in their academics.

Grade Potential Can Help You with the Quadratic Equation

If you are battling to understand these theories, you might require a math instructor to assist you. It is best to ask for help before you lag behind.

With Grade Potential, you can understand all the tips and tricks to ace your next mathematics examination. Turn into a confident quadratic equation solver so you are ready for the ensuing big ideas in your mathematical studies.