November 24, 2022

Quadratic Equation Formula, Examples

If you going to try to solve quadratic equations, we are excited regarding your venture in mathematics! This is really where the most interesting things starts!

The information can look overwhelming at start. But, offer yourself some grace and room so there’s no pressure or stress when figuring out these problems. To be competent at quadratic equations like an expert, you will require a good sense of humor, patience, and good understanding.

Now, let’s start learning!

What Is the Quadratic Equation?

At its center, a quadratic equation is a mathematical equation that states various scenarios in which the rate of deviation is quadratic or proportional to the square of some variable.

Though it seems similar to an abstract theory, it is simply an algebraic equation described like a linear equation. It usually has two answers and utilizes intricate roots to solve them, one positive root and one negative, through the quadratic formula. Unraveling both the roots should equal zero.

Definition of a Quadratic Equation

Foremost, remember that a quadratic expression is a polynomial equation that comprises 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 utilize this formula to figure out x if we replace these terms into the quadratic formula! (We’ll go through it later.)

All quadratic equations can be scripted like this, that makes working them out simply, 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. Thus, compared to the quadratic formula, we can confidently say this is a quadratic equation.

Usually, you can see these kinds of formulas when measuring a parabola, which is a U-shaped curve that can be plotted on an XY axis with the data that a quadratic equation offers 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 Employing the Quadratic Formula

While quadratic equations might seem very complex when starting, they can be broken down into few easy steps using a simple formula. The formula for figuring out quadratic equations consists of setting the equal terms and using basic algebraic functions like multiplication and division to achieve 2 results.

After all operations have been carried out, we can figure out the units of the variable. The answer take us another step closer to work out the result to our first problem.

Steps to Figuring out a Quadratic Equation Using the Quadratic Formula

Let’s quickly put in the original quadratic equation once more so we don’t overlook what it looks like

ax2 + bx + c=0

Prior to working on anything, remember to separate 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 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 totals to zero, just like the conventional mode 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 method. If it isn’t workable, plug the variables in the quadratic formula, which will be your best friend for figuring out quadratic equations. The quadratic formula appears something like this:

x=-bb2-4ac2a

Every terms correspond to the same terms in a conventional form of a quadratic equation. You’ll be employing this a great deal, so it is smart move to memorize it.

Step 3: Implement the zero product rule and figure out the linear equation to discard possibilities.

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

Example 1

2x2 + 4x - x2 = 5

Now, let’s fragment 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 ensuing:

a=1

b=4

c=-5

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

x=-bb2-4ac2a

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

We figure out the second-degree equation to obtain:

x=-416+202

x=-4362

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

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

x = 1 x = -5


After that, you have your result! You can check your workings 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

This is it! You've solved your first quadratic equation utilizing the quadratic formula! Kudos!

Example 2

Let's try another example.

3x2 + 13x = 10


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


3x2 + 13x - 10 = 0


To solve this, we will plug 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 just like we did in the previous example. Work out all easy equations step by step.


x=-13169-(-120)6

x=-132896


You can figure out x by taking the positive and negative square roots.

x=-13+176 x=-13-176

x=46 x=-306

x=23 x=-5



Now, you have your answer! You can review your workings 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 that's it! You will work out quadratic equations like nobody’s business with some patience and practice!


With this synopsis of quadratic equations and their fundamental formula, kids can now take on this difficult topic with confidence. By beginning with this simple definitions, learners gain a firm foundation prior moving on to more complicated theories down in their academics.

Grade Potential Can Guide You with the Quadratic Equation

If you are struggling to understand these concepts, you may need a mathematics teacher to assist you. It is better to ask for help before you trail behind.

With Grade Potential, you can understand all the helpful hints to ace your subsequent math examination. Become a confident quadratic equation problem solver so you are prepared for the ensuing intricate ideas in your mathematics studies.