November 24, 2022

Quadratic Equation Formula, Examples

If you going to try to solve quadratic equations, we are thrilled about your adventure in mathematics! This is actually where the amusing part starts!

The information can look overwhelming at start. Despite that, give yourself some grace and room so there’s no rush or strain when figuring out these questions. To be competent at quadratic equations like a pro, you will require a good sense of humor, patience, and good understanding.

Now, let’s start learning!

What Is the Quadratic Equation?

At its heart, a quadratic equation is a arithmetic formula that states different scenarios in which the rate of change is quadratic or proportional to the square of some variable.

Though it might appear like an abstract idea, it is just an algebraic equation described like a linear equation. It usually 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

First, 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 employ this formula to solve for x if we replace these numbers into the quadratic equation! (We’ll get to that later.)

Ever quadratic equations can be scripted like this, that makes solving them straightforward, relatively speaking.

Example of a quadratic equation

Let’s compare the given 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, compared to the quadratic equation, we can confidently tell this is a quadratic equation.

Usually, you can find these kinds of equations when scaling a parabola, that 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 know what quadratic equations are and what they look like, let’s move on to working them out.

How to Figure out a Quadratic Equation Employing the Quadratic Formula

Even though quadratic equations may seem greatly complex when starting, they can be broken down into few easy steps using an easy formula. The formula for solving quadratic equations consists of setting the equal terms and using fundamental algebraic operations like multiplication and division to obtain two results.

Once all operations have been carried out, we can work out the numbers of the variable. The results take us single step nearer to find result to our original problem.

Steps to Solving a Quadratic Equation Utilizing the Quadratic Formula

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

ax2 + bx + c=0

Prior to solving anything, bear in mind to detach the variables on one side of the equation. Here are the 3 steps to work on a quadratic equation.

Step 1: Write 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 is equivalent to zero, just like the standard mode of a quadratic equation.

Step 2: Factor the equation if feasible

The standard equation you will wind up with must be factored, ordinarily using the perfect square process. If it isn’t possible, replace the variables in the quadratic formula, which will be your closest friend for working out quadratic equations. The quadratic formula appears similar to this:

x=-bb2-4ac2a

Every terms correspond to the equivalent terms in a conventional form of a quadratic equation. You’ll be utilizing this a great deal, so it is wise to remember it.

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

Now once you have 2 terms resulting in zero, solve them to achieve 2 answers for x. We possess two answers because the answer for a square root can either be positive or negative.

Example 1

2x2 + 4x - x2 = 5

At the moment, let’s piece down this equation. Primarily, simplify and place it in the standard form.

x2 + 4x - 5 = 0

Next, let's recognize the terms. If we contrast these to a standard quadratic equation, we will identify the coefficients of x as follows:

a=1

b=4

c=-5

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

x=-bb2-4ac2a

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

We work on the second-degree equation to get:

x=-416+202

x=-4362

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

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

x = 1 x = -5


After that, you have your result! You can review your workings 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 solved your first quadratic equation utilizing the quadratic formula! Congrats!

Example 2

Let's check out another example.

3x2 + 13x = 10


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


3x2 + 13x - 10 = 0


To work on this, we will plug in the figures like this:

a = 3

b = 13

c = -10


Solve for x employing the quadratic formula!

x=-bb2-4ac2a

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


Let’s streamline this as much as possible by solving it just like we executed 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 solution! You can review your work utilizing 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 little practice and patience!


With this synopsis of quadratic equations and their fundamental formula, students can now tackle this challenging topic with faith. By beginning with this simple explanation, learners secure a strong foundation prior undertaking further intricate concepts down in their academics.

Grade Potential Can Guide You with the Quadratic Equation

If you are fighting to understand these ideas, you might need a math teacher to guide you. It is better to ask for help before you trail behind.

With Grade Potential, you can study all the helpful hints to ace your subsequent math test. Turn into a confident quadratic equation solver so you are ready for the ensuing intricate concepts in your mathematics studies.