November 24, 2022

Quadratic Equation Formula, Examples

If you going to try to work on quadratic equations, we are enthusiastic regarding your adventure in math! This is indeed where the amusing part begins!

The data can appear too much at first. However, provide yourself some grace and space so there’s no hurry or stress when solving these problems. To be competent at quadratic equations like an expert, you will need patience, understanding, and a sense of humor.

Now, let’s begin learning!

What Is the Quadratic Equation?

At its heart, a quadratic equation is a math equation that portrays different situations in which the rate of change is quadratic or proportional to the square of some variable.

Although it might appear like an abstract concept, it is just an algebraic equation stated like a linear equation. It generally has two results and utilizes intricate roots to solve them, one positive root and one negative, employing the quadratic equation. Working out both the roots should equal zero.

Definition of a Quadratic Equation

Primarily, remember 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 utilize this formula to solve for x if we plug these terms into the quadratic formula! (We’ll get to that later.)

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

Example of a quadratic equation

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

x2 + 5x + 6 = 0

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

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

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

How to Work on a Quadratic Equation Employing the Quadratic Formula

While quadratic equations might seem very complicated when starting, they can be cut down into few simple steps employing a simple formula. The formula for figuring out quadratic equations involves setting the equal terms and applying fundamental algebraic functions like multiplication and division to achieve 2 answers.

After all functions have been carried out, we can figure out the values of the variable. The results take us single step nearer to work out the answer to our actual problem.

Steps to Working on a Quadratic Equation Using the Quadratic Formula

Let’s quickly place in the general quadratic equation again so we don’t overlook what it looks like

ax2 + bx + c=0

Ahead of solving anything, bear in mind to isolate the variables on one side of the equation. Here are the 3 steps to solve a quadratic equation.

Step 1: Note the equation in standard mode.

If there are variables on both sides of the equation, sum all similar terms on one side, so the left-hand side of the equation equals zero, just like the conventional mode of a quadratic equation.

Step 2: Factor the equation if feasible

The standard equation you will end up with must be factored, ordinarily utilizing the perfect square process. If it isn’t feasible, put the variables in the quadratic formula, that will be your best friend for figuring out quadratic equations. The quadratic formula seems similar to this:

x=-bb2-4ac2a

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

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

Now once you possess two terms equivalent to zero, solve them to achieve two results for x. We have 2 results due to the fact that the answer for a square root can either be negative or positive.

Example 1

2x2 + 4x - x2 = 5

Now, let’s break down this equation. Primarily, clarify and put it in the conventional form.

x2 + 4x - 5 = 0

Immediately, let's identify 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 plug this into the quadratic formula and work out “+/-” to involve both 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

After this, let’s clarify 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 revise your solution by using 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

That's it! You've solved your first quadratic equation using the quadratic formula! Congrats!

Example 2

Let's work on another example.

3x2 + 13x = 10


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


3x2 + 13x - 10 = 0


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

a = 3

b = 13

c = -10


figure out x utilizing the quadratic formula!

x=-bb2-4ac2a

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


Let’s streamline this as much as feasible by figuring it out just like we performed in the prior example. Work out all simple equations step by step.


x=-13169-(-120)6

x=-132896


You can work out x by considering the negative and positive 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 this is it! You will figure out quadratic equations like nobody’s business with a bit of patience and practice!


With this synopsis of quadratic equations and their rudimental formula, learners can now take on this challenging topic with assurance. By beginning with this simple explanation, kids acquire a firm understanding before moving on to more complex concepts later in their academics.

Grade Potential Can Guide You with the Quadratic Equation

If you are battling to understand these theories, you might need a math instructor to help you. It is best to ask for guidance before you get behind.

With Grade Potential, you can study all the tips and tricks to ace your subsequent mathematics examination. Grow into a confident quadratic equation problem solver so you are prepared for the ensuing big theories in your math studies.