November 24, 2022

Quadratic Equation Formula, Examples

If this is your first try to solve quadratic equations, we are excited regarding your journey in mathematics! This is indeed where the amusing part begins!

The details can look overwhelming at first. But, provide yourself some grace and space so there’s no hurry or strain while solving these questions. To be efficient at quadratic equations like a pro, you will need a good sense of humor, patience, and good understanding.

Now, let’s begin learning!

What Is the Quadratic Equation?

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

Although it seems like an abstract idea, it is simply an algebraic equation described like a linear equation. It generally has two results and utilizes complicated roots to solve them, one positive root and one negative, using the quadratic equation. Unraveling both the roots the answer to which will be zero.

Definition of a Quadratic Equation

Primarily, bear 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 formula to figure out x if we replace these terms into the quadratic formula! (We’ll go through it later.)

Ever quadratic equations can be scripted like this, which makes figuring them out straightforward, comparatively speaking.

Example of a quadratic equation

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

x2 + 5x + 6 = 0

As we can see, there are 2 variables and an independent term, and one of the variables is squared. Consequently, linked to the quadratic formula, we can confidently state this is a quadratic equation.

Usually, you can observe these types of equations when scaling a parabola, that is a U-shaped curve that can be graphed on an XY axis with the information that a quadratic equation gives us.

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

How to Figure out a Quadratic Equation Employing the Quadratic Formula

Although quadratic equations might look greatly complicated when starting, they can be divided into few simple steps utilizing an easy formula. The formula for figuring out quadratic equations involves setting the equal terms and using fundamental algebraic functions like multiplication and division to get 2 results.

Once all operations have been executed, we can solve for the numbers of the variable. The solution take us one step closer to discover solutions to our first problem.

Steps to Figuring out a Quadratic Equation Utilizing the Quadratic Formula

Let’s quickly plug in the original quadratic equation again so we don’t overlook what it seems like

ax2 + bx + c=0

Before figuring out 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 standard mode.

If there are variables on either side of the equation, add all alike terms on one side, so the left-hand side of the equation totals 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 must be factored, ordinarily using the perfect square method. If it isn’t possible, replace the terms in the quadratic formula, which will be your best buddy for figuring out quadratic equations. The quadratic formula seems similar to this:

x=-bb2-4ac2a

All the terms responds to the same terms in a standard form of a quadratic equation. You’ll be employing this significantly, so it pays to remember it.

Step 3: Implement the zero product rule and work out the linear equation to remove possibilities.

Now that you have two terms equivalent to zero, work on them to get two solutions for x. We have 2 answers because the answer for a square root can either be positive or negative.

Example 1

2x2 + 4x - x2 = 5

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

x2 + 4x - 5 = 0

Next, let's determine 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 solve for “+/-” 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

Next, let’s streamline the square root to achieve two linear equations and work out:

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

x = 1 x = -5


After that, you have your solution! You can check your workings by using 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 figured out your first quadratic equation using the quadratic formula! Congrats!

Example 2

Let's try another example.

3x2 + 13x = 10


First, put it in the standard form so it equals zero.


3x2 + 13x - 10 = 0


To figure out this, we will put in the figures 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 much as feasible by solving it just like we performed in the previous example. Figure out all simple equations step by step.


x=-13169-(-120)6

x=-132896


You can figure 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 revise your work utilizing 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 nobody’s business with some patience and practice!


Granted this synopsis of quadratic equations and their basic formula, learners can now go head on against this difficult topic with confidence. By opening with this straightforward explanation, kids acquire a strong understanding before undertaking further complex concepts ahead in their studies.

Grade Potential Can Help You with the Quadratic Equation

If you are struggling to get a grasp these ideas, you might need a math instructor to assist you. It is best to ask for assistance before you get behind.

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