November 24, 2022

Quadratic Equation Formula, Examples

If you’re starting to solve quadratic equations, we are enthusiastic about your venture in math! This is indeed where the fun starts!

The data can appear overwhelming at first. However, provide yourself a bit of grace and space so there’s no pressure or stress when solving these problems. To be efficient at quadratic equations like a professional, you will require understanding, patience, and a sense of humor.

Now, let’s start learning!

What Is the Quadratic Equation?

At its core, a quadratic equation is a arithmetic formula that portrays different scenarios in which the rate of deviation is quadratic or relative to the square of some variable.

However it may look similar to an abstract theory, it is simply an algebraic equation described like a linear equation. It usually has two solutions and uses complicated roots to figure out them, one positive root and one negative, employing the quadratic formula. Unraveling both the roots the answer to which will be zero.

Definition of a Quadratic Equation

First, bear in mind 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 employ this formula to work out x if we plug these variables into the quadratic formula! (We’ll go through it later.)

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

Example of a quadratic equation

Let’s compare 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, linked to the quadratic equation, we can assuredly say this is a quadratic equation.

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

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

How to Solve a Quadratic Equation Using the Quadratic Formula

While quadratic equations might seem greatly intricate initially, they can be broken down into multiple simple steps using a simple formula. The formula for figuring out quadratic equations consists of setting the equal terms and utilizing basic algebraic functions like multiplication and division to obtain two answers.

After all operations have been executed, we can work out the numbers of the variable. The results take us single step closer to work out the solutions to our original problem.

Steps to Solving a Quadratic Equation Utilizing the Quadratic Formula

Let’s promptly put in the common quadratic equation once more so we don’t overlook what it seems like

ax2 + bx + c=0

Ahead of working on anything, keep in mind to isolate the variables on one side of the equation. Here are the three steps to work on a quadratic equation.

Step 1: Write the equation in conventional mode.

If there are terms on either side of the equation, total all similar terms on one side, so the left-hand side of the equation is equivalent to zero, just like the standard model of a quadratic equation.

Step 2: Factor the equation if feasible

The standard equation you will end up with must be factored, generally utilizing the perfect square process. If it isn’t possible, replace the terms in the quadratic formula, which will be your best buddy for working out quadratic equations. The quadratic formula seems similar to this:

x=-bb2-4ac2a

All the terms correspond to the equivalent terms in a standard form of a quadratic equation. You’ll be utilizing this a lot, so it is wise to memorize it.

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

Now that you have two terms equal to zero, solve them to achieve 2 results for x. We get 2 results because the solution for a square root can be both positive or negative.

Example 1

2x2 + 4x - x2 = 5

Now, let’s break down this equation. Primarily, streamline and place it in the standard form.

x2 + 4x - 5 = 0

Now, let's recognize 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 solve 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 figure out the second-degree equation to obtain:

x=-416+202

x=-4362

After this, let’s clarify the square root to attain two linear equations and work out:

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

x = 1 x = -5


Next, you have your solution! You can revise your solution 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

This is it! You've worked out your first quadratic equation utilizing the quadratic formula! Congrats!

Example 2

Let's work on another example.

3x2 + 13x = 10


Let’s begin, place it in the standard form so it results in zero.


3x2 + 13x - 10 = 0


To solve this, we will put in the numbers like this:

a = 3

b = 13

c = -10


Work out x employing the quadratic formula!

x=-bb2-4ac2a

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


Let’s streamline this as far as feasible by working it out just like we executed in the last example. Work 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 review 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 figure out quadratic equations like a pro with a bit of practice and patience!


With this synopsis of quadratic equations and their rudimental formula, students can now go head on against this difficult topic with confidence. By opening with this simple definitions, learners gain a firm foundation ahead of taking on further complex concepts down in their academics.

Grade Potential Can Help You with the Quadratic Equation

If you are battling to get a grasp these theories, you might require a math teacher to guide you. It is best to ask for help before you get behind.

With Grade Potential, you can study all the helpful hints to ace your next math exam. Turn into a confident quadratic equation solver so you are ready for the following big theories in your mathematics studies.