November 24, 2022

Quadratic Equation Formula, Examples

If you’re starting to work on quadratic equations, we are excited regarding your journey in mathematics! This is indeed where the most interesting things starts!

The data can appear overwhelming at first. However, offer yourself some grace and room so there’s no hurry or strain when working through these problems. To master quadratic equations like a professional, 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 math equation that describes distinct situations in which the rate of deviation is quadratic or proportional to the square of some variable.

Though it seems similar to an abstract concept, it is simply an algebraic equation described like a linear equation. It usually has two answers and utilizes complex roots to work out them, one positive root and one negative, through the quadratic equation. Working out both the roots the answer to which will be zero.

Meaning 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 standard form is:

ax2 + bx + c

Where “a,” “b,” and “c” are variables. We can employ this equation to figure out x if we replace these terms into the quadratic formula! (We’ll get to that later.)

All quadratic equations can be written like this, which results in figuring them out straightforward, relatively speaking.

Example of a quadratic equation

Let’s compare the ensuing 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. Consequently, compared to the quadratic equation, we can surely say this is a quadratic equation.

Commonly, you can find these types of formulas 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 understand what quadratic equations are and what they appear like, let’s move on to figuring them out.

How to Solve a Quadratic Equation Using the Quadratic Formula

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

After all functions have been performed, we can work out the units of the variable. The answer take us one step closer to work out the solutions to our first problem.

Steps to Working on a Quadratic Equation Utilizing the Quadratic Formula

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

ax2 + bx + c=0

Prior to working on anything, bear in mind to isolate the variables on one side of the equation. Here are the three steps to solve a quadratic equation.

Step 1: Write the equation in standard mode.

If there are variables on both sides of the equation, sum all alike 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 workable

The standard equation you will conclude with should be factored, usually using the perfect square method. If it isn’t feasible, replace the variables in the quadratic formula, which will be your closest friend for solving quadratic equations. The quadratic formula seems something like this:

x=-bb2-4ac2a

Every terms coincide to the equivalent terms in a conventional form of a quadratic equation. You’ll be using this a great deal, so it pays to memorize it.

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

Now once you have 2 terms equal to zero, work on them to attain 2 results for x. We have 2 results due to the fact that the answer for a square root can be both negative or positive.

Example 1

2x2 + 4x - x2 = 5

At the moment, let’s fragment down this equation. First, simplify and place it in the conventional form.

x2 + 4x - 5 = 0

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

a=1

b=4

c=-5

To solve quadratic equations, let's put this into the quadratic formula and work out “+/-” to include both square root.

x=-bb2-4ac2a

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

We solve the second-degree equation to get:

x=-416+202

x=-4362

Now, let’s simplify the square root to get two linear equations and solve:

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

x = 1 x = -5


After that, you have your solution! You can review your workings by checking these terms with the first 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! Kudos!

Example 2

Let's check out one more example.

3x2 + 13x = 10


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


3x2 + 13x - 10 = 0


To figure out this, we will plug in the values 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 much as possible by figuring it out just like we executed in the prior example. Work out all simple equations step by step.


x=-13169-(-120)6

x=-132896


You can work 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 solution! 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 this is it! You will work out quadratic equations like nobody’s business with some practice and patience!


With this summary of quadratic equations and their rudimental formula, kids can now take on this challenging topic with confidence. By starting with this easy definitions, kids secure a strong understanding before taking on further complex theories later in their academics.

Grade Potential Can Assist You with the Quadratic Equation

If you are fighting to understand these theories, you might require a mathematics teacher to guide you. It is better to ask for assistance before you fall behind.

With Grade Potential, you can learn all the helpful hints to ace your next math exam. Grow into a confident quadratic equation solver so you are ready for the ensuing complicated concepts in your mathematical studies.