Using the Quadratic Formula (2.5.2) Flashcards
• Using the quadratic formula allows solutions for equations that cannot be factored or solved by easier methods.
• Using the quadratic formula allows solutions for equations that cannot be factored or solved by easier methods.
• Quadratic equation: ax^2 + bx + c = 0
• Quadratic equation: ax^2 + bx + c = 0
x=(-b+/-(sqrt b^2 - 4ac))/2a
x=(-b+/-(sqrt b^2 - 4ac))/2a
- “a” is the coefficient of the squared term (quadratic term) in the equation.
- “b” is the coefficient of the unsquared term (linear term) in the equation.
- “c” is the constant in the equation.
- “a” is the coefficient of the squared term (quadratic term) in the equation.
- “b” is the coefficient of the unsquared term (linear term) in the equation.
- “c” is the constant in the equation.
As a practice, try to factor first. It is a shorter and easier
process. Generally, use the quadratic formula when nothing else works.
Using the formula involves simply substituting in the values for a, b, and c that you find in the equation.
Then, do the arithmetic.
Expect two answers. Frequently, the two answers include an imaginary element
In this example, both a and c are radicals. Identify a, b, and c.
Substitute those values into the formula.
Do the arithmetic to find your two answers.
Note here you must rationalize the denominator because of the sqrt2.
As a practice, try to factor first. It is a shorter and easier
process. Generally, use the quadratic formula when nothing else works.
Using the formula involves simply substituting in the values for a, b, and c that you find in the equation.
Then, do the arithmetic.
Expect two answers. Frequently, the two answers include an imaginary element
In this example, both a and c are radicals. Identify a, b, and c.
Substitute those values into the formula.
Do the arithmetic to find your two answers.
Note here you must rationalize the denominator because of the sqrt2.
