November 24, 2022

Quadratic Equation Formula, Examples

If you’re starting to solve quadratic equations, we are thrilled about your venture in math! This is actually where the amusing part begins!

The data can appear overwhelming at start. Despite that, offer yourself some grace and space so there’s no rush or stress 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 start learning!

What Is the Quadratic Equation?

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

However it might appear similar to an abstract idea, it is simply an algebraic equation expressed like a linear equation. It ordinarily has two answers and uses complicated roots to figure out them, one positive root and one negative, employing the quadratic formula. Working out both the roots should equal zero.

Definition of a Quadratic Equation

Primarily, bear in mind that a quadratic expression is a polynomial equation that comprises of 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 use this formula to work out x if we put these variables into the quadratic formula! (We’ll look at it next.)

Ever quadratic equations can be written like this, that results in figuring them out easy, relatively speaking.

Example of a quadratic equation

Let’s contrast the given equation to the subsequent equation:

x2 + 5x + 6 = 0

As we can observe, there are 2 variables and an independent term, and one of the variables is squared. Therefore, compared to the quadratic equation, we can surely state this is a quadratic equation.

Usually, you can find these types 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 gives us.

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

How to Work on a Quadratic Equation Using the Quadratic Formula

While quadratic equations may seem very complicated initially, they can be broken down into few simple steps utilizing a straightforward formula. The formula for solving quadratic equations involves creating the equal terms and using basic algebraic functions like multiplication and division to get 2 results.

After all operations have been carried out, we can solve for the values of the variable. The solution take us one step closer to find result to our first problem.

Steps to Figuring out a Quadratic Equation Employing the Quadratic Formula

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

ax2 + bx + c=0

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

Step 1: Write the equation in conventional mode.

If there are terms on either side of the equation, total all equivalent 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 possible

The standard equation you will wind up with should be factored, generally through the perfect square method. If it isn’t workable, plug the terms in the quadratic formula, which will be your best buddy 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 utilizing this a lot, so it is wise to remember it.

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

Now that you have two terms equal to zero, figure out them to get 2 answers for x. We get 2 answers because the solution for a square root can either be negative or positive.

Example 1

2x2 + 4x - x2 = 5

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

x2 + 4x - 5 = 0

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

a=1

b=4

c=-5

To figure out quadratic equations, let's put this into the quadratic formula and work out “+/-” 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

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

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

x = 1 x = -5


Next, you have your solution! You can revise 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 using the quadratic formula! Congrats!

Example 2

Let's try another example.

3x2 + 13x = 10


Initially, put it in the standard form so it results in 0.


3x2 + 13x - 10 = 0


To figure out this, we will substitute in the numbers like this:

a = 3

b = 13

c = -10


Work out x using the quadratic formula!

x=-bb2-4ac2a

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


Let’s clarify this as much as workable 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 result! 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 a pro with little practice and patience!


With this summary of quadratic equations and their basic formula, children can now go head on against this complex topic with assurance. By starting with this straightforward explanation, learners acquire a solid understanding prior moving on to more complex theories ahead in their academics.

Grade Potential Can Guide You with the Quadratic Equation

If you are struggling to get a grasp these theories, you might require a math instructor to help you. It is best to ask for guidance before you fall behind.

With Grade Potential, you can study all the helpful hints to ace your next math examination. Grow into a confident quadratic equation solver so you are prepared for the ensuing complicated theories in your math studies.