1.

QUADRATICS

QUADRATIC
FUNCTIONS
COORDINATE GEOMETRY
CIRCULAR MEASURE
TRIGONOMETRY
SERIES
DIFFERENTIATION
INTEGRATION

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 1. QUADRATICS

1. QUADRATIC
1.1 Completing squares
• We can change the General form of Quadratic equation of 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 to a completed squared form
of 𝑦 = 𝑎(𝑥 − ℎ)2 + 𝑘.

• Why do we need to change the form to 𝑦 = 𝑎(𝑥 − ℎ)2 + 𝑘?

Answer: Few major uses of completing square form are to:

o Find the Turning point coordinate of Quadratic graph which is (ℎ, 𝑘).
o An alternate way of solving Quadratic equation.

1.1.1 Steps on Completing the squares from 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 into

𝑦 = 𝑎(𝑥 − ℎ)2 + 𝑘

Example 1: Express 𝑦 = 15𝑥 − 8𝑥 2 + 2 into the form of 𝒚 = 𝒂(𝒙 − 𝒉)𝟐 + 𝒌

Step 1: Rearrange the Quadratic equation into 𝑦 = 15𝑥 − 8𝑥 2 + 2

its general form of 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐. 𝑦 = −8𝑥 2 + 15𝑥 + 2
Step 2: Factorize so that the coefficient of 𝑥 2 is 15 2
𝑦 = −8 (𝑥 2 − 𝑥 − )
ALWAYS +1. (You can expand it back to make 8 8
sure that your factorization is correct). 15 1
𝑦 = −8 (𝑥 2 − 𝑥− )
8 4
⎕ 2 15 ⎕
2
1 ⎕
2
Step 3: Add the dummy + ( ) after the 𝑥 2
𝑦 = −8 (𝑥 − 𝑥 + ( ) − − ( ) )
2
⎕ 2
8 2 4 2
term and add the dummy −( ) after the
2
constant (Dummies doesn’t change the
quadratic value, just the form).
Step 4: Fill in the numerator of the dummies 2 2
15 15
with the coefficient of 𝒙 (take note and 15 − 1 −
8 8
account of its sign!) 𝑦 = −8 𝑥 2 − 𝑥+ − −
8 2 4 2
( ) ( )
( )
Step 5: Simplify the dummies but DO NOT 2 2
15 15 1 15
EXPAND THE SQUARES! (Yet.) 𝑦 = −8 (𝑥 2 − 𝑥 + (− ) − − (− ) )
8 16 4 16
Step 6: Using Perfect Square formula (which 15 15 2 1 15 2
you can google) we can do further factorization 𝑦 = −8 ( 𝑥 2 − 𝑥 + (− ) − − (− ) )
8 16 4 16
on the box like so:

15 2 1 15 2
𝑦 = −8 ( [𝑥 − ] − − (− ) )
16 4 16

The sign of the constant in the second box depends on the

sign of the numerator of the dummy, which is negative in
this case.
Step 7: We can then simplify the rest of its tail 15 2 1 15 2
(Just use your calculator!): 𝑦 = −8 ([𝑥 − ] − − (− ) )
16 4 16

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 1. QUADRATICS

Step 8: Finally multiple back any factor outside 15 2 289

in to complete the square (In this case the 𝑦 = −8 ([𝑥 − ] − )
16 256
factor −8).
15 2 289
𝑦 = −8 (𝑥 − ) +
⏟ 16 32
𝑌𝑜𝑢 𝑐𝑎𝑛′ 𝑡 𝑒𝑥𝑝𝑎𝑛𝑑
−8 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑟𝑒!

Example 2: Express 𝑦 = 3 − 𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 into the form of 𝒚 = 𝒂(𝒙 − 𝒉)𝟐 + 𝒌

Step 1: Rearrange the Quadratic equation into 𝑦 = 3 − 𝑥 2 + 5𝑥

its general form of 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐. 𝑦 = −𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 + 3
Step 2: Factorize so that the coefficient of 𝑥 2 is 𝑦 = −(𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 − 3)
ALWAYS +1. (You can expand it back to make
sure that your factorization is correct).
⎕ 2 ⎕
2
⎕
2
Step 3: Add the dummy + ( ) after the 𝑥 𝑦 = − (𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 + ( ) −3−( ) )
2
⎕ 2
2 2
term and add the dummy −( ) after the
2
constant (Dummies doesn’t change the
quadratic value, just the form).
Step 4: Fill in the numerator of the dummies 2 2
2
5 5
with the coefficient of 𝒙 (take note and 𝑦 = − (𝑥 + 5𝑥 + ( ) − 3 − ( ) )
2 2
account of its sign!)

Step 5: Simplify the dummies but DO NOT 2 2

5 5
EXPAND THE SQUARES! (Yet.) 𝑦= − (𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 + ( ) − 3 − ( ) )
2 2
Step 6: Using Perfect Square formula (which 2 2
5 5
you can google) we can do further factorization 𝑦 = −( 𝑥2 + 5𝑥 + ( ) − 3 − ( ) )
on the box like so: 2 2

52 5 2
𝑦 = − ( [𝑥 + ] − 3 − ( ) )
2 2

The sign of the constant in the second box depends on the

sign of the numerator of the dummy, which is positive in
this case.
Step 7: We can then simplify the rest of its tail 52 5 2
(Just use your calculator!): 𝑦 = − ([𝑥 + ] −3 − ( ) )
2 2

Step 8: Finally multiple back any factor outside 5 2 37

in to complete the square (In this case the 𝑦 = − ([𝑥 + ] − )
2 4
factor −1). 2
5 37
𝑦= − (𝑥 + ) +
⏟ 2 4
𝑌𝑜𝑢 𝑐𝑎𝑛′ 𝑡 𝑒𝑥𝑝𝑎𝑛𝑑
−1 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑟𝑒!

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 1. QUADRATICS

3𝑥 2
Example 3: Express 𝑦 = − + 2 into the form of 𝒚 = 𝒂(𝒙 − 𝒉)𝟐 + 𝒌
2

Remark: Since there are no 𝒙 term, we can just

use simple factorization and simplification to
get the completed square form.
Step 1: Rearrange the Quadratic equation into 3𝑥 2
its general form of 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐. 𝑦=− +2
2
Step 2: Factorize so that the coefficient of 𝑥 2 is
3 2
ALWAYS +1. (You can expand it back to make 𝑦 = − (𝑥 2 − )
2 3
sure that your factorization is correct). ( )
2
Step 3: Simplify the inside bracket. 3 2 4
𝑦 = − (𝑥 − )
2 3
3 2 4
𝑦 = − (𝑥 − ) + 0
2 3

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1.1.2 Factorizing Quadratic equation into 𝑦 = (𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏)2 + 𝑐 where 𝑎, 𝑏 and

𝑐 is a constant (Using completing squares).
Example 4: Express 4𝑥 2 + 12𝑥 + 10 in the form (𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏)2 + 𝑐, where 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 are constants.
[PYP: 9709/13/O/N/16 Q8i – 3 marks]

Step 1: Rearrange the Quadratic equation into 𝐿𝑒𝑡 𝑦 = 4𝑥 2 + 12𝑥 + 10

its general form of 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐.
Step 2: Factorize so that the coefficient of 𝑥 2 is 12 10
𝑦 = 4 (𝑥 2 +𝑥+ )
ALWAYS +1. (You can expand it back to make 4 4
sure that your factorization is correct). 2
5
𝑦 = 4 (𝑥 + 3𝑥 + )
2
⎕ 2 ⎕
2
5 ⎕
2
Step 3: Add the dummy + ( ) after the 𝑥 2
𝑦 = 4 (𝑥 + 3𝑥 + ( ) + − ( ) )
2
⎕ 2
2 2 2
term and add the dummy − ( ) after the
2
constant (Dummies doesn’t change the
quadratic value, just the form).
Step 4: Fill in the numerator of the dummies 2 2
3 5 3
with the coefficient of 𝒙 (take note and 𝑦= 4 (𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 + ( ) + − ( ) )
2 2 2
account of its sign!)

Step 5: Simplify the dummies but DO NOT 3 2 5 3 2

EXPAND THE SQUARES! (Yet.) 𝑦 = 4 (𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 + ( ) + − ( ) )
2 2 2
Step 6: Using Perfect Square formula (which 2 2
3 5 3
you can google) we can do further factorization 𝑦 = 4 ([𝑥 + ] + − ( ) )
2 2 2
like so:

Step 7: We can then simplify the rest of its tail 32 1

(Just use your calculator!): 𝑦 = 4 ([𝑥 + ] + )
2 4

Step 8: Finally multiple back any factor outside 32

in to complete the square (No outside factor in 𝑦 = 4 [𝑥 + ] + 1
2
this case). End of Completing square

Step 9: Using Indices Law to do further Use Indices Law: 𝑎2 𝑏 2 = (𝑎𝑏)2

factorization into (𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏)2 + 𝑐. 32
2
𝑦 = 2 [𝑥 + ] + 1
2
3 2
𝑦 = (2 [𝑥 + ]) + 1
2

Now we can expand the inside of square bracket:

𝑦 = (2𝑥 + 3)2 + 1

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 1. QUADRATICS

1.2 Solving Quadratic equations

• We can only solve Quadratic equation if there is an equal " = " sign. Hence the word equation.
• Examples:
o 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 5 = 0
𝑥2
o 6− =0
3
o 5 − 𝑥 = 2𝑥 2

• Quadratic equation must have 2 distinct solutions (roots) or 2 equal solutions.

• There are few ways to solve Quadratic equations:

1. By Simple algebra (no 𝑥 term)

2. By Factorization
a) Common Factorization (No constant)
b) Quadratic Factorization (If possible)
c) Differences of 2 squares (no 𝑥 term – Good skill to learn)
3. By Quadratic Formula (Will work for all Quadratic equations)
4. By Completing Square (Will work for all Quadratic equations)
5. By Graph (Not covered in this notes)

1.2.1 By Simple algebra (no 𝑥 term)

Example 1: Solve the equation 3𝑥 2 − 9 = 0

By Simple Algebra:

3𝑥 2 − 9 = 0
3𝑥 2 = 9
𝑥2 = 3
𝑥 = ±√3
∴ 𝑥 = +√3 𝑜𝑟 − √3

1.2.2 Solving Quadratic equations by Factorization

Example 2: Solve the equation 2𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 = 0

By Common factorization:
2𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 = 0
2𝑥(𝑥 + 2) = 0
∴ 2𝑥 = 0 𝑜𝑟 (𝑥 + 2) = 0
∴ 𝑥 = 0 𝑜𝑟 − 2

2𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 = 0
2𝑥 2 = −4𝑥

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Note: We cannot cancel out the 𝑥 since it will reduce the Quadratic equation into a linear equation – So the
method below is wrong!

2𝑥 2 4𝑥
=−
𝑥 𝑥

2𝑥 = −4
∴ 𝑥 = −2

Quadratic equation must have 2 distinct solutions (roots) or 2 equal solutions!

Example 3: Solve the equation 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 5 = 0

By Quadratic Factorization (If possible):

𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 5 = 0
(𝑥 + 5)(𝑥 + 1) = 0
∴ (𝑥 + 5) = 0 𝑜𝑟 (𝑥 + 1) = 0
∴ 𝑥 = −5 𝑜𝑟 − 1

Example 4: Solve the equation 16𝑥 2 − 25 = 0

By Differences of 2 squares (no 𝑥 term – Good skill to learn)

16𝑥 2 − 25 = 0
42 𝑥 2 − 52 = 0

Remember that for Differences of 2 squares: 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 = (𝑎 − 𝑏)(𝑎 + 𝑏)

(4𝑥)2 − 52 = 0
(4𝑥 − 5)(4𝑥 + 5) = 0

5 5
∴𝑥= 𝑜𝑟 −
4 4

Alternatively, we can solve using the method in example 1. But it is very helpful (important) for you to be familiar
in detecting and applying Differences of 2 squares.

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1.2.3 Solving Quadratic equations by Quadratic Formula

• For a Quadratic equation 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐
• We can use the Quadratic formula to solve it (find roots):

−𝑏 ± √𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
𝑥=
2𝑎

• Always label your 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 before proceeding with the calculations.

• Always beware of negative signs to avoid careless mistakes.

• Quadratic Formula will 100% solve all Quadratic equations for this level (although unnecessary sometimes,
especially if you can use quadratic factorization)

Example 5: Solve the equation −𝑥 2 − 𝑥 + 1 = 0

By Quadratic Formula:

𝑎 = −1
𝑏 = −1
𝑐=1

−𝑏 ± √𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
𝑥=
2𝑎

−(−1) ± √(−1)2 − 4(−1)(1)

∴𝑥=
2(−1)

1 ± √5
𝑥=
−2

(1 + √5) (1 − √5)
∴𝑥=− 𝑜𝑟 −
2 2

−√5 − 1 √5 − 1
𝑥= 𝑜𝑟
2 2

Note: Final answer in decimals must be expressed in 3 significant figures (unless stated otherwise).

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 1. QUADRATICS

1.2.4 Solving Quadratic equations by Completing Square

• Alternatively, we can use Completing square instead of Quadratic formula to solve Quadratic equations.

Example 5: Solve the equation −𝑥 2 − 𝑥 + 1 = 0

By Completing square:

Changing to completed square form:

−𝑥 2 − 𝑥 + 1 = 0
−(𝑥 2 + 𝑥 − 1) = 0

Since this is an equation, we can move the negative sign to be multiplied by zero, hence eliminating it.

𝑥2 + 𝑥 − 1 = 0
1 2 1 2
𝑥2 + 𝑥 + ( ) − 1 − ( ) = 0
2 2
1 2 5
(𝑥 + ) − = 0
2 4
1 2 5
(𝑥 + ) =
2 4
1 5
𝑥+ =√
2 4

Note: Square root will always give 2 values! (Positive and negative).

1 √5
𝑥+ =±
2 2

√5 1 √5 1
∴𝑥=+ − 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = − −
2 2 2 2

√5 − 1 −√5 − 1
𝑥= 𝑜𝑟
2 2

Note: Final answer in decimals must be expressed in 3 significant figures (unless stated otherwise).

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 1. QUADRATICS

1.3 Simultaneous equations: Quadratic and Linear equations

• In secondary level Mathematics, we learn how to solve simultaneous equations where both equations are
linear.

• In this level we will learn how to solve simultaneous equations where one equation is linear and the other is
quadratic.

• We will either get two distinct real roots (solutions), one repeated real root, or no real root.

• Solving simultaneous equations usually have more than one way to solve and often time will require you to
use all the algebraic skills that you have learned.

• Few basic pointers to make solving simultaneous equations easier:

o Eliminate fractions if possible (by multiplying everything with the LCM of the denominators).
o Choose a simpler substitution, avoid fractions if possible.
o Be careful with negative signs.

Example 9: Solve the simultaneous equation

1
𝑦= (1 − 𝑥 2 )
2
𝑦=𝑥−1

Solution:
1
𝑦 = (1 − 𝑥 2 ) → 𝑒𝑞𝑛 1
2
𝑦 = 𝑥 − 1 → 𝑒𝑞𝑛 2

𝑒𝑞𝑛1 = 𝑒𝑞𝑛2
1
(1 − 𝑥 2 ) = 𝑥 − 1
2
𝑒𝑙𝑖𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒 𝑓𝑟𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑏𝑦 𝑚𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 2

1 − 𝑥 2 = 2𝑥 − 2
𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 3 = 0
(𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 − 1) = 0

∴ 𝑥 = −3 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = 1

𝑠𝑢𝑏 𝑥 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑦 = 𝑥 − 1 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑒𝑞𝑛2

𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑥 = −3 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑥 = 1
𝑦 = (−3) − 1 𝑦 = (1) − 1
𝑦 = −4 𝑦=0

𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛:
𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑥 = −3, 𝑦 = −4
𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑥 = 1, 𝑦 = 0

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 1. QUADRATICS

Example 10: Solve the simultaneous equation

2𝑥 + 𝑦 = 9
𝑥(1 − 𝑦) = 3𝑥 2 + 1

Solution:
2𝑥 + 𝑦 = 9 → 𝑒𝑞𝑛 1
𝑥(1 − 𝑦) = 3𝑥 2 + 1 → 𝑒𝑞𝑛 2

𝐶ℎ𝑜𝑜𝑠𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑠𝑡 𝑠𝑖𝑚𝑝𝑙𝑒 𝑠𝑢𝑏𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑡𝑢𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑡𝑜 𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑘 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ:

9−𝑦
𝑁𝑜𝑡𝑒: 𝑢𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑥 = 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑒𝑞𝑛 1 𝑤𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝑚𝑎𝑘𝑒 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑠𝑜𝑙𝑣𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑐𝑒𝑠𝑠 𝑚𝑢𝑐ℎ 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑙𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑.
2

𝑠𝑜 𝑤𝑒 𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑚𝑝𝑙𝑒 𝑠𝑢𝑏 𝑦 = 9 − 2𝑥 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑒𝑞𝑛1 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑒𝑞𝑛 2

𝑥(1 − (9 − 2𝑥)) = 3𝑥 2 + 1
𝑥(1 − 9 + 2𝑥) = 3𝑥 2 + 1
𝑥(−8 + 2𝑥) = 3𝑥 2 + 1
−8𝑥 + 2𝑥 2 = 3𝑥 2 + 1
𝑥 2 + 8𝑥 + 1 = 0

𝑢𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑢𝑙𝑎 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑖𝑡 𝑐𝑎𝑛𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑏𝑒 𝑓𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑧𝑒𝑑

∴ 𝑥 = −0.127 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = −7.87

𝑠𝑢𝑏 𝑥 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑦 = 9 − 2𝑥 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑒𝑞𝑛1

𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑥 = −0.127 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑥 = −7.87

𝑦 = 9 − 2(−0.127) 𝑦 = 9 − 2(−7.87)
𝑦 = 9.25 𝑦 = 24.7

𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛:
𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑥 = −0.127, 𝑦 = 9.25
𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑥 = −7.87, 𝑦 = 24.7
(3 𝑠. 𝑓)

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 1. QUADRATICS

Practice questions:
1. Solve the simultaneous equations 𝑥 + 2𝑦 = 4 and 𝑥 2 − 3𝑦 + 𝑦 2 = 4.
𝑦
2. Solve the simultaneous equations 𝑥 + = 1 and 𝑦 2 − 10 = 2𝑥.
2
4 3
3. Solve the simultaneous equations 2𝑦 − 𝑥 = 1 and + = 7.
𝑥 𝑦
4. Solve the simultaneous equations 2𝑥 + 3𝑦 + 1 = 0 and 𝑦 2 + 6𝑥𝑦 + 6 = 0. Give your answer correct to 3
significant figures.
5. Solve the simultaneous equations 4𝑥 + 𝑦 + 8 = 2 and 𝑥 2 + 𝑥 − 𝑦 = 2.
𝑥 2
6. Solve the simultaneous equations + = 4 and 𝑥 + 6𝑦 = 3.
3 𝑦
6𝑦 𝑥
7. Solve the simultaneous equations 2𝑥 + 3𝑦 = 9 and − = −1.
𝑥 𝑦
8. Solve the simultaneous equations 3𝑥 − 2𝑦 = 5 and 𝑥2 − 𝑦2 − 𝑦 −
3 = 0.
2 𝑦
9. Solve the simultaneous equations 2𝑦 = 3(1 − 𝑥) and = 3.
𝑥
10. Solve the simultaneous equations 2𝑥 + 𝑦 = 1 and 2𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 + 𝑥𝑦 = 5.

ANSWERS – SIMULTANEOUS EQUATIONS

12 4
1. 𝑥 = ,𝑦 = ; 𝑥 = −2, 𝑦 = 3
5 5
1
2. 𝑥 = 3, 𝑦 = −4; 𝑥 = − , 𝑦 = 3
2
4 3
3. 𝑥 = 1, 𝑦 = 1; 𝑥 = − , 𝑦 =
7 14

4. 𝑥 = 1.105, 𝑦 = −1.07; 𝑥 = −1.55 , 𝑦 = 0.70

5. 𝑥 = −1, 𝑦 = −2; 𝑥 = −4, 𝑦 = 10

1
6. 𝑥 = 0, 𝑦 = ; 𝑥 = 15, 𝑦 = −2
2

7. 𝑥 = 3, 𝑦 = 1; 𝑥 = 18, 𝑦 = −9

9 1
8. 𝑥 = , 𝑦 = ; 𝑥 = 3, 𝑦 = 2
5 5
1 1 3
9. 𝑥 = , 𝑦 = 1; 𝑥 = − , 𝑦 = −
3 2 2

10. 𝑥 = 1.443 , 𝑦 = −1.886; 𝑥 = −0.6930, 𝑦 = 2.386

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 1. QUADRATICS

1.4 Solving Quadratic Inequalities

• Quadratic equation is when you have equal sign in a Quadratic expression, for example:

2𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 − 3 = 0

We can solve this because of the equal sign - using methods we have discussed previously.

• Recall in Mathematics D, you deal with Linear Inequalities.

For example, solve:
3𝑥 + 1 < 2

For Linear Inequality, the method of solving it is like how we would solve Linear Equation.

3𝑥 + 1 < 2
3𝑥 < 1
1
∴𝑥<
3

• Now let us examine this expression:

2𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 − 3 < 0

We call this expression a Quadratic Inequalities. This is due to the inequality signs >, <, ≥ or ≤.

We DO NOT solve Quadratic Inequalities like Quadratic Equations.

We use graph to solve Quadratic Inequalities!

• Steps in solving Quadratic Inequalities

(Examples are provided afterwards to illustrate these steps better):
o Step 1: Arrange the Quadratic Inequality in the General form of 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 where 𝒂 is positive
and zero on the right-hand side of the inequality.
o Step 2: Do a side-working to sketch the graph of the Quadratic function.
o Step 3: Solve the Quadratic Inequality using the graph (depending on the inequality sign).

• Note: For Inequalities, if we multiply/divide everything by negative number, we must change the sign to its
opposite sign!
This applies to both Quadratic and Linear Inequalities.
For example:
1 − 5𝑥 ≤ −4
−5𝑥 ≤ −5
(𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑏𝑦 − 1)
5𝑥 ≥ 5
∴𝑥≥1

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Example 6: Solve the inequality −𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 ≤ −7

Step 1: Arrange the Quadratic Inequality −𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 ≤ −7

in the General form of 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 −𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 7 ≤ 0
where 𝒂 is positive and zero on the right- (𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑏𝑦 − 1)
hand side of the inequality. 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 − 7 ≥ 0

• Note: For Inequalities, if we multiply/divide everything

by negative number, we must change the sign to its
opposite sign!

Step 2: Do a side-working to sketch the Let 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 − 7 = 0

graph of the Quadratic function. We let the quadratic function equals to zero just to find the roots
so that we can sketch the graph
(The roots are NOT the solution of the inequality!)

Finding roots:
𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 − 7 = 0
(𝑥 + 7)(𝑥 − 1) = 0
∴ 𝑥 = −7 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = 1
(𝑁𝑂𝑇 𝑇𝐻𝐸 𝑆𝑂𝐿𝑈𝑇𝐼𝑂𝑁!)

Since the coefficient of 𝒙𝟐 is positive, therefore it is a minimum

Quadratic graph.

So, sketching the graph we have:

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 1. QUADRATICS
Step 3: Solve the Quadratic Inequality
using the graph (depending on the
inequality sign).
Note: 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 − 7 ≥ 0 has equal sign in
its inequality.
Which means inclusive of −7 and 1.
So, use a solid point for the roots ● when
sketching the graph.
PRE-U1 NOTES – Sir Md Adib Johari
Back to the main working: Use the graph to shade the required
region of the Quadratic Inequality.
If the inequality is greater than 𝟎 (𝑦 ≥ 0), then shade the upper
part including the roots.
𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 − 7 ≥ 0
𝑦≥0
(𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑛𝑠 𝑦 > 0 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑏𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑑 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑦 = 0)
↓
𝐻𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑠ℎ𝑎𝑑𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑒𝑟 𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑡 𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑟𝑜𝑜𝑡𝑠
(𝑖. 𝑒. , 𝑠ℎ𝑎𝑑𝑒 𝑎𝑏𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑥 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑟𝑜𝑜𝑡𝑠)
Answer: 𝑥: 𝑥 ≤ −7 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 ≥ 1 Finish!
15
 1. QUADRATICS

Example 7: Solve the inequality 3(𝑥 + 2) < −𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 2

Step 1: Arrange the Quadratic Inequality 3(𝑥 + 2) < −𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 2

in the General form of 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 3𝑥 + 6 < −𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 2
where 𝒂 is positive and zero on the right- 𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 + 2 + 3𝑥 + 6 < 0
hand side of the inequality. 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 8 < 0

Step 2: Do a side-working to sketch the Let 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 8 = 0

graph of the Quadratic function.
We let the quadratic function equals to zero just to find the roots
so that we can sketch the graph
(The roots are NOT the solution of the inequality!)

Finding roots:
𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 8 = 0
(𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 + 4) = 4
∴ 𝑥 = −2 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = −4
(𝑁𝑂𝑇 𝑇𝐻𝐸 𝑆𝑂𝐿𝑈𝑇𝐼𝑂𝑁!)

Since the coefficient of 𝒙𝟐 is positive, therefore it is a minimum

Quadratic graph.

So, sketching the graph we have:

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 1. QUADRATICS

Step 3: Solve the Quadratic Inequality
using the graph (depending on the
inequality sign).
Back to the main working: Use the graph to shade the required
region of the Quadratic Inequality.
If the inequality is less than 𝟎 (𝑦 < 0), then shade the lower
part.

𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 8 < 0
𝑦<0
↓
𝐻𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑠ℎ𝑎𝑑𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑡 𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑟𝑜𝑜𝑡𝑠
(𝑖. 𝑒. , 𝑠ℎ𝑎𝑑𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑙𝑜𝑤 𝑥 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠)

Note: 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 8 < 0
has NO equal sign in its inequality.
Which means exclusive of −4 and −2.
So, use a hollow point for the roots ◯
when sketching the graph.

Answer: 𝑥: − 4 < 𝑥 < −2 Finish!

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 1. QUADRATICS

Example 8: Solve the inequality 20𝑚2 > 1 − 𝑚

Step 1: Arrange the Quadratic Inequality 20𝑚2 > 1 − 𝑚

in the General form of 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 20𝑚2 + 𝑚 − 1 > 0
where 𝒂 is positive and zero on the right-
hand side of the inequality.

Step 2: Do a side-working to sketch the Let 20𝑚2 + 𝑚 − 1

graph of the Quadratic function.
We let the quadratic function equals to zero just to find the roots
so that we can sketch the graph
(The roots are NOT the solution of the inequality!)

Finding roots:
20𝑚2 + 𝑚 − 1 = 0
(5𝑚 − 1)(4𝑚 + 1) = 4
1 1
∴𝑚= 𝑜𝑟 𝑚 = −
5 4
(𝑁𝑂𝑇 𝑇𝐻𝐸 𝑆𝑂𝐿𝑈𝑇𝐼𝑂𝑁!)

Since the coefficient of 𝒎𝟐 is positive, therefore it is a minimum

Quadratic graph.

So, sketching the graph we have:

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 1. QUADRATICS

Step 3: Solve the Quadratic Inequality
using the graph (depending on the
inequality sign).
Back to the main working: Use the graph to shade the required
region of the Quadratic Inequality.
If the inequality is greater than 𝟎 (𝑦 > 0), then shade the upper
part.

20𝑚2 + 𝑚 − 1 > 0
𝑦>0
↓
𝐻𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑠ℎ𝑎𝑑𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑒𝑟 𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑡
(𝑖. 𝑒. , 𝑠ℎ𝑎𝑑𝑒 𝑎𝑏𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑥 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠)

Note: 20𝑚2 + 𝑚 − −1 > 0

has NO equal sign in its inequality.
1 1
Which means exclusive of − and .
4 5
So, use a hollow point for the roots ◯
when sketching the graph.

1 1
Answer: 𝑥: 𝑥 < − 4 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 > 5 Finish!

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 1. QUADRATICS

1.5 Discriminant of Quadratic Polynomials

• For a Quadratic equation 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐
We can use the Quadratic formula to find root(s):

−𝑏 ± √𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
𝑥=
2𝑎

• The Quadratic formula part of 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 is called Discriminant, 𝑫 , i.e.: 𝐷 = 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐

• We can identify different types of discriminants that can be formed from different types of roots of a
Quadratic equation (without finding the roots).

No. Number of Discriminant Alternative keywords Diagram

intersections Type
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0 2 different/distinct and Figure 1.1
real.
2 different
1.
real roots

𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0 1 real roots, Tangent to Figure 1.2

the 𝑥-axis.
1 repeated
real root
2.
(or 2 equal
real roots)

𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0 No real roots, Lies entirely Figure 1.3

above/below (frown) the
𝑥-axis.

3. No real roots

𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 ≥ 0 Meets the 𝑥-axis (not sure

meets at one point or cuts Either Figure 1.1 or 1.2 (Which we may
Either 2 or 1
(Since it’s the 𝑥-axis into 2 points). not know).
repeated real
4. unclear - we
roots
combine both
(Unclear)
‘>‘ and ‘=’).

• We mainly use the discriminant to find an unknown value(s) of a constant in a quadratic equation. But this
can only be possible if we know the type of discriminant of the quadratic equation. This can be further
explained in the next few examples.
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 1. QUADRATICS

Example 5: The equation 𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 2𝑘 = −𝑘𝑥 − 3 has no real roots. What is the range of values of 𝒌?

NOTE:
Find Range/Set of values of 𝒌 usually indicates that we will be dealing with Inequality later (Either Linear or
Quadratic Inequality). Hence your answer should be in terms of inequality.

Step 1: Rearrange the 𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 2𝑘 = −𝑘𝑥 − 3

Quadratic equation into general 𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 + 𝑘𝑥 − 2𝑘 + 3 = 0
form of 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0.
𝑥 2 + 𝑘𝑥 − 3𝑥 + 3 − 2𝑘 = 0

It’s better to put positive value in front, if possible.

NOTE:
Students with higher skill level can factorize further as such:

𝑥 2 + (𝑘 − 3)𝑥 + 3 − 2𝑘 = 0

But it always causes careless mistakes, especially when taking out 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐
later on step 2. So be extra careful if you decide to do this, or just avoid this if
you’re not confident enough.

Step 2: Take out the coefficient • 𝑎=1 [coefficient of 𝑥 2 ]

𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 from the Quadratic • 𝑏 = 𝑘−3 [coefficient of 𝑥 ]
equation. • 𝑐 = 3 − 2𝑘 [constant]

NOTE:
Step 1 and Step 2 is crucial! Make sure you double check and get everything
right or your whole working and final answer will be wrong later.

Step 3: Deduce which no real roots → 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0

Discriminant to use from the
given clue about the roots.

NOTE:
Keep in mind that the graph above belongs to the Quadratic equation
𝑥 2 + (𝑘 − 3)𝑥 + 3 − 2𝑘 = 0. Once we know the discriminant type, we have
no further use for 𝑥 2 + (𝑘 − 3)𝑥 + 3 − 2𝑘 = 0 going forward.

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 1. QUADRATICS

Step 4: Substitute and simplify 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0

your 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 into the (ℎ𝑎𝑠 𝑛𝑜 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙 𝑟𝑜𝑜𝑡𝑠)
Discriminant.
(𝑘 − 3)2 − 4(1)(3 − 2𝑘) < 0
𝑘 2 − 3𝑘 − 3𝑘 + 9 − 12 + 8𝑘 < 0
𝑘 2 − 6𝑘 − 3 + 8𝑘 < 0
∴ 𝑘 2 + 2𝑘 − 3 < 0
NOTE:
• Now we are dealing with 𝑘 2 + 2𝑘 − 3 < 0.
(Not the original Quadratic equation 𝑥 2 + 𝑘𝑥 − 3𝑥 + 3 − 2𝑘 = 0)
• At this point forget about 𝑥 2 + 𝑘𝑥 − 3𝑥 + 3 − 2𝑘 = 0, we don’t need
it anymore going forward.

Step 5: Deduce what expression 𝑘 2 + 2𝑘 − 3 < 0

do you get from step 4.
𝑖𝑠 𝑎:
𝑄𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝐸𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 ⎕ 𝐿𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝐸𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 ⎕
𝑄𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝐼𝑛𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑦  𝐿𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝐼𝑛𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑦 ⎕

Step 6: Solve the 𝑘 2 + 2𝑘 − 3 < 0

expression/problem from step 4
appropriately. is a Quadratic Inequality. Refer 1.4 on how to solve this.
Note: DO NOT solve Quadratic Inequalities like how we solve Quadratic
equation.

Side working: to sketch the graph

(Find roots):
Let
𝑘 2 + 2𝑘 − 3 = 0
(𝑘 − 1)(𝑘 + 3) = 0
∴ 𝑘 = 1 𝑂𝑅 𝑘 = −3
(𝑁𝑂𝑇 𝑇𝐻𝐸 𝑆𝑂𝐿𝑈𝑇𝐼𝑂𝑁𝑆)
Note:
• Here we are sketching the graph of 𝑘 2 + 2𝑘 − 3 = 0.
• NOT 𝑥 2 + 𝑘𝑥 − 3𝑥 + 3 − 2𝑘 = 0 (no use after step 3)
• So the axis and roots/solutions belongs to 𝑘.

Back to main working: Since 𝑘 2 + 2𝑘 − 3 < 0 (𝑦 < 0), so we shade the

Note: 𝑘 2 + 2𝑘 − 3 < 0 lower part of the graph:
has NO equal sign in its
inequality.
Which means exclusive of −3
and 1.
So, use a hollow point for the
roots ◯ when sketching the
graph.

Hence solution to the problem is: 𝑘: −3 < 𝑘 < 1 Finish!

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 1. QUADRATICS
Example 6: Find the values of 𝒑 for which the equation (𝑝 + 3)𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 = −2𝑝 has two equal real roots.
NOTE:
Find values of 𝑝 means the solution must be more than one value or in terms of inequality.
Step 1: Rearrange the
Quadratic equation into general
form of 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0.
Step 2: Take out the coefficient
𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 from the Quadratic
equation.
Step 3: Deduce which
Discriminant to use from the
given clue about the roots.
Step 4: Substitute and simplify
your 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 into the
Discriminant.
Note: For Inequalities, if we
multiply/divide everything by
negative number, we must
change the sign to its opposite
sign!
PRE-U1 NOTES – Sir Md Adib Johari
(𝑝 + 3)𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 = −2𝑝
(𝑝 + 3)𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 2𝑝 = 0
• 𝑎 = (𝑝 + 3) [coefficient of 𝑥 2 ]
• 𝑏 = −12 [coefficient of 𝑥 ]
• 𝑐 = 2𝑝 [constant]
NOTE:
Step 1 and Step 2 is crucial! Make sure you double check and get everything
right or your whole working and final answer will be wrong later.
two equal real roots → one repeated real root → 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0
NOTE:
Keep in mind that the graph above belongs to the Quadratic equation
(𝑝 + 3)𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 2𝑝 = 0. Once we know the discriminant type, we have no
further use for (𝑝 + 3)𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 2𝑝 = 0 going forward.
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0
(ℎ𝑎𝑠 𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙 𝑟𝑜𝑜𝑡)
∴ (−12)2 − 4(𝑝 + 3)(2𝑝) = 0
144 − 8𝑝 2 − 24𝑝 = 0
−8𝑝 2 − 24𝑝 + 144 = 0
(Divide everything by −8)
∴ 𝑝 2 + 3𝑝 − 18 = 0
NOTE:
• Now we are dealing with 𝑝 2 + 3𝑝 − 18 = 0.
(Not the original Quadratic equation (𝑝 + 3)𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 2𝑝 = 0
• At this point forget about (𝑝 + 3)𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 2𝑝 = 0 , we don’t need
it anymore going forward.
23
 1. QUADRATICS

Step 5: Deduce what expression 𝑝 2 + 3𝑝 − 18 = 0

do you get from step 4. 𝑖𝑠 𝑎:
𝑄𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝐸𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛  𝐿𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝐸𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 ⎕
𝑄𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝐼𝑛𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑦 ⎕ 𝐿𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝐼𝑛𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑦 ⎕

Step 6: Solve the 𝑝 2 + 3𝑝 − 18 = 0

expression/problem from step 4
appropriately. is a simple Quadratic equation. Refer section 1.2 on how to solve this.

𝑝 2 + 3𝑝 − 18 = 0
(𝑝 + 6)(𝑝 − 3) = 0

∴ 𝑝 = −6 𝑜𝑟 𝑝=3
Finish!

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 1. QUADRATICS

Example 7: What are the largest values of 𝑚 can have if the roots of −4𝑥 + 𝑚 = −3𝑥 2 are real?

NOTE:
Largest values of 𝑚 means indicates that we will be dealing with Inequality later (Either Linear or Quadratic
Inequality). Hence your answer should be in terms of inequality.

Step 1: Rearrange the −4𝑥 + 𝑚 = −3𝑥 2

Quadratic equation into general 3𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 𝑚 = 0
form of 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0.

Step 2: Take out the coefficient • 𝑎=3 [coefficient of 𝑥 2 ]

𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 from the Quadratic • 𝑏 = −4 [coefficient of 𝑥 ]
equation. • 𝑐=𝑚 [constant]

NOTE:
Step 1 and Step 2 is crucial! Make sure you double check and get everything
right or your whole working and final answer will be wrong later.

Step 3: Deduce which real roots → one repeated or two real roots → 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 ≥ 0
Discriminant to use from the
given clue about the roots.

NOTE:
Keep in mind that the graph above belongs to the Quadratic equation
3𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 𝑚 = 0. Once we know the discriminant type, we have no further
use for 3𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 𝑚 = 0 going forward.

Step 4: Substitute and simplify 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 ≥ 0

your 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 into the (ℎ𝑎𝑠 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙 𝑟𝑜𝑜𝑡)
Discriminant.
∴ (−4)2 − 4(3)(𝑚) ≥ 0
16 − 12𝑚 ≥ 0
−12𝑚 ≥ −16
Note: For Inequalities, if we (Divide everything by −12)
multiply/divide everything by
negative number, we must 4
∴𝑚≤
change the sign to its opposite 3
4
sign! ∴The largest value of 𝑚 is (inclusive). Finish!
3

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 1. QUADRATICS

1.6 Discriminant: Intersections of a line with a Quadratic curve

• We can also identify the types of discriminants formed, from the types of intersections created between a
line and a Quadratic curve (similar to identifying types of roots).

No. Number of Discriminant Alternative keywords Diagram

intersections Type (Quadratic curve can also be maximum
- frown shape)
2 different 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0 a. 2 different/distinct Figure 2.1
intersections intersections.
b. Meets/cuts/intersects
1. at 2 points

1 repeated 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0 a. 1 repeated Figure 2.2

intersection intersection root (or 2
root (or 2 equal intersection)
2. equal b. Tangent
intersection) c. Meets/cuts/intersects
at 1 point

No 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0 a. No intersection Figure 2.3

intersection b. Does Not
meet/cut/intersect
3. c. Lies entirely
above/below (frown).

Either 2 or 1 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 ≥ 0 Meets/cuts/intersects

repeated only (we don’t know Either Figure 2.1 or 2.2 (Which we may
intersection (Since it’s whether it not know).
4. (Unclear) unclear - we meets/cuts/intersects at 1
combine both point or 2 points)
‘>‘ and ‘=’).

• We mainly use the discriminant to find an unknown value(s) of a constant in a quadratic equation. But this
can only be possible if we know the type of discriminant of the quadratic equation. This can be further
explained in the next few examples.

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• For further illustration, consider the line and Quadratic curve whose respective equations are:

𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 1
𝑦 = 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 𝑘

This is a simultaneous equation of linear and quadratic equation.

We cannot solve this simultaneous equation at this stage because of the unknown constant 𝑘.
So, we must find the constant 𝑘 first.

The method to solve this problem is almost the same as the one in section 1.5.

But first we must combine (NOT SOLVE – we can’t yet) these two equations to become a single quadratic
equation:
𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 𝑘 = 2𝑥 + 1
2
𝑥 + 6𝑥 − 2𝑥 + 𝑘 − 1 = 0
𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 𝑘 − 1 = 0

Now we can pluck our 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 and use the discriminant to check the type of intersection that it has. At this
stage it will be exactly the same as section 1.5.

Note: We can then solve for 𝒙 by using simultaneous equations after we got the missing constant 𝑘
(depends on the questions whether they asked you to just find 𝑘 or both 𝑘 and 𝑥).

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Example 8: Find the range values of 𝑚 for which the line 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 6 intersects the curve 2𝑥 2 − 𝑥𝑦 = 3 at two
distinct points.

NOTE:
Find the range values of 𝑚 means the solution must be in terms of inequality.

Step 1: Combine (and simplify) 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 6 → 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 1

the two equations using 2𝑥 2 − 𝑥𝑦 = 3 → 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 2
simultaneous equation into a
Quadratic equation: (𝑠𝑢𝑏 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 6 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑒𝑞𝑛. 2)

Rearrange the Quadratic 2𝑥 2 − 𝑥𝑦 = 3

equation into general form of 2𝑥 2− 𝑥(𝑚𝑥 + 6) = 3
𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0. 2𝑥 2 − 𝑚𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 − 3 = 0

Step 2: Take out the coefficient • 𝑎 = 2−𝑚 [coefficient of 𝑥 2 ]

𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 from the Quadratic • 𝑏 = −6 [coefficient of 𝑥]
equation. • 𝑐 = −3 [constant]

NOTE:
Step 1 and Step 2 is crucial! Make sure you double check and get everything
right or your whole working and final answer will be wrong later.

Step 3: Deduce which Intersects at two distinct points→ 𝒃𝟐 − 𝟒𝒂𝒄 > 𝟎

Discriminant to use from the
given clue about the
intersection(s).

NOTE:
Keep in mind that once we know the discriminant type, we have no further use
for 2𝑥 2 − 𝑚𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 − 3 = 0 going forward.

Step 4: Substitute and simplify 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0

your 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 into the (𝐼𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑠 𝑎𝑡 𝑡𝑤𝑜 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑡 𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠)
Discriminant.
(−6)2 − 4(2 − 𝑚)(−3) > 0
36 + 12(2 − 𝑚) > 0
36 + 24 − 12𝑚 > 0
60 − 12𝑚 > 0
Note: For Inequalities, if we
multiply/divide everything by
negative number, we must
change the sign to its opposite
sign!

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 1. QUADRATICS

Step 5: Deduce what expression 60 − 12𝑚 > 0

do you get from step 4. 𝑖𝑠 𝑎:
𝑄𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝐸𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 ⎕ 𝐿𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝐸𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 ⎕
𝑄𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝐼𝑛𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑦 ⎕ 𝐿𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝐼𝑛𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑦 

Step 6: Solve the 60 − 12𝑚 > 0

expression/problem from step 4 60 > 12𝑚
appropriately. 12𝑚 < 60
∴𝑚<5
Finish!

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 1. QUADRATICS
Example 9: The line 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 − 8 meets the curve 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + 𝑚, find the values of 𝑚.
NOTE:
Find values of 𝑚 means the solution must be more than one value or in terms of inequality.
Step 1: Combine (and simplify)
the two equations using
simultaneous equation into a
Quadratic equation:
Rearrange the Quadratic
equation into general form of
𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0.
Step 2: Take out the coefficient
𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 from the Quadratic
equation.
Step 3: Deduce which
Discriminant to use from the
given clue about the
intersection(s).
Step 4: Substitute and simplify
your 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐 into the
Discriminant.
Note: For Inequalities, if we
multiply/divide everything by
negative number, we must
change the sign to its opposite
sign!
Step 5: Deduce what expression
do you get from step 4.
PRE-U1 NOTES – Sir Md Adib Johari
𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 − 8 → 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 1
𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + 𝑚 → 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 2
(𝑠𝑢𝑏 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 − 8 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑒𝑞𝑛. 2)
𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + 𝑚
𝑚𝑥 − 8 = 𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + 𝑚
𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + 𝑚 = 𝑚𝑥 − 8
2
𝑥 − 5𝑥 − 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑚 + 8 = 0
• 𝑎=1 [coefficient of 𝑥 2 ]
• 𝑏 = −5 − 𝑚 [coefficient of 𝑥 ]
• 𝑐 = 𝑚+8 [constant]
NOTE:
Step 1 and Step 2 is crucial! Make sure you double check and get everything
right or your whole working and final answer will be wrong later.
meets → 𝒃𝟐 − 𝟒𝒂𝒄 ≥ 𝟎
(𝑒𝑖𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑠 𝑎𝑡 𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑟 2 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑡 𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠)
NOTE:
Keep in mind that once we know the discriminant type, we have no further use
for 𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 − 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑚 + 8 = 0 going forward.
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 ≥ 0
(𝑀𝑒𝑒𝑡𝑠)
(−5 − 𝑚)2 − 4(1)(𝑚 + 8) ≥ 0
(−5 − 𝑚)(−5 − 𝑚) − 4𝑚 − 32 ≥ 0
25 + 5𝑚 + 5𝑚 + 𝑚2 − 4𝑚 − 32 ≥ 0
𝑚2 + 10𝑚 − 4𝑚 − 7 ≥ 0
∴ 𝑚2 + 6𝑚 − 7 ≥ 0
𝑚2 + 6𝑚 − 7 ≥ 0
𝑖𝑠 𝑎:
𝑄𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝐸𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 ⎕ 𝐿𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝐸𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 ⎕
𝑄𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝐼𝑛𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑦  𝐿𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝐼𝑛𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑦 ⎕
30
 1. QUADRATICS

Step 6: Solve the 𝑚2 + 6𝑚 − 7 ≥ 0

expression/problem from step 4
appropriately. is a Quadratic Inequality. Refer 1.3 on how to solve this.
Note: DO NOT solve Quadratic Inequalities like how we solve Quadratic
equation.

Side working: to sketch the graph

(Find roots):
Let
𝑚2 + 6𝑚 − 7 = 0
(𝑚 + 7)(𝑚 − 1) = 0
∴ 𝑚 = −7 𝑂𝑅 𝑚 = 1
(𝑁𝑂𝑇 𝑇𝐻𝐸 𝑆𝑂𝐿𝑈𝑇𝐼𝑂𝑁𝑆)
Note:
• Here we are sketching the graph of 𝑚2 + 6𝑚 − 7 = 0
• NOT 𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 − 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑚 + 8 = 0 (no use after step 3)
• So the axis and roots/solutions belongs to 𝑚.

Note: 𝑚2 + 6𝑚 − 7 ≥ 0 Back to main working: Since 𝑚2 + 6𝑚 − 7 ≥ 0 (𝑦 ≥ 0), so we shade

has equal sign in its inequality. the upper part of the graph.
Which means inclusive of −7
and 1.
So, use a solid point for the
roots ● when sketching the
graph.

Hence solution to the problem is: 𝑚: 𝑚 ≤ −7 𝑂𝑅 𝑚 ≥ 1 Finish!

Practice questions

1. Find the value of 𝑐 such that the straight line whose equation is 𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 𝑐 is tangential to the curve with
equation 𝑦 = 3𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 5.
2. If the line does not intersect the curve 𝑦 2 = 𝑥 + 𝑝, find the range of values of 𝑝.
3. For what range values of 𝑐 does the line 𝑦 = 𝑐𝑥 + 4 cut the curve 5𝑥 2 − 𝑥𝑦 = 2 at two points?
4. If the curve 𝑦 = 𝑘𝑥(𝑥 + 2) meets the line 𝑦 = 𝑥 − 𝑘, find the range of values of 𝑘. State the value of 𝑘 for
which the line is tangent.
5. Find the set of values of 𝑚 for which the line 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 − 1 does not intersect the curve 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 + 3.
State also the values of 𝑚 for which this line is a tangent to the curve.
6. Show that the line 𝑦 = 2𝑚𝑥 − 1 intersects the curve 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 2 − 𝑥 + 𝑚 for all non-zero values of 𝑚.

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1.7 Solving Reducible Quadratic equations

(Disguised Quadratic equations)

• Now that we can solve all Quadratic equations, we can then adapt this method to solve much more complex
equations that can be expressed in a quadratic form through substitution. We call this reducible or disguised
quadratic equations.

Example: Solve 𝑥 4 − 13𝑥 2 + 36 = 0

Note: 𝑥 4 − 13𝑥 2 + 36 = 0 is a complex equation. But if we can express it in a quadratic form, we can
then solve it simply like how we solve quadratic equations.

Step 1: Determine the substitution to be used. 𝑥 4 − 13𝑥 2 + 36 = 0

Note: Determining the substitution is the hardest For the variable with the highest power number
part of this process. Make sure your indices (ignoring ± sign), try factoring the power two out
knowledge is sound. (by indices law) and see whether what’s left in the
bracket is consistent with the other variable.

2
(𝑥 ? ) − 13𝑥 2 + 36 = 0
(𝑥 2 )2 − 13(𝑥 2 ) + 36 = 0

∴ 𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝐴 = 𝑥 2

Step 2: Make the substitution and solve the (𝐴)2 − 13(𝐴) + 36 = 0

resulting equation. (𝐴 − 9)(𝐴 − 4) = 0
∴𝐴=9 𝑜𝑟 𝐴=4

Step 3: Re-substitute the expression from step 1

and solve for the original variable. For For
𝐴=9 𝐴=4
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝐴 = 𝑥 2 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝐴 = 𝑥 2

∴ 𝑥2 = 9 ∴ 𝑥2 = 4
Note: 𝑥 = √9 𝑥 = √4
1. Square roots always yield ± answers. 𝑥 = ±3 𝑥 = ±2
2. Check your answer if necessary.

Finish!

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Example: Solve 3𝑥 + 8√𝑥 − 3 = 0

Note: 3𝑥 + 8√𝑥 − 3 = 0 is a complex equation. But if we can express it in a quadratic form, we can then
solve it simply like how we solve quadratic equations.

Step 1: Determine the substitution to be used. 3𝑥 + 8√𝑥 − 3 = 0

Note: Determining the substitution is the hardest 1

Always change √ to power when solving.
part of this process. Make sure your indices 2
knowledge is sound.
1
3𝑥 + 8𝑥 2 − 3 = 0

For the variable with the highest power number

(ignoring ± sign), try factoring the power two out
(by indices law) and see whether what’s left in the
bracket is consistent with the other variable.

2 1
3(𝑥 ? ) + 8𝑥 2 − 3 = 0
1 2 1
3 (𝑥 2 ) + 8 (𝑥 2 ) − 3 = 0

1
∴ 𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝑦 = 𝑥 2

Step 2: Make the substitution and solve the 3(𝑦)2 + 8(𝑦) − 3 = 0

resulting equation. (3𝑦 − 1)(𝑦 + 3) = 0
1
∴𝑦= 𝑜𝑟 𝑦 = −3
Note: 3
Use quadratic formula (or completing square) if you
cannot factorize it.

Step 3: Re-substitute the expression from step 1

and solve for the original variable. For For
1 𝑦 = −3
𝑦= 1
3 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑦 = 𝑥 2
1
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑦 = 𝑥2
1
Note: 1 1 ∴ 𝑥 2 = −3
1. Square roots always yield ± answers. ∴ 𝑥2 = 𝑥 = (−3)2
3
2. Check your answer if necessary. 𝑥=9
1 2
𝑥=( )
3
1
𝑥=
9

Finish!

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 1. QUADRATICS

Example: Solve
2 1
𝑦 −3 − 𝑦 −3 − 6 = 0
2 1
Note: 𝑦 −3 − 𝑦 −3 − 6 = 0 is a complex equation. But if we can express it in a quadratic form, we can then
solve it simply like how we solve quadratic equations.

Step 1: Determine the substitution to be used. 2 1

𝑦 −3 − 𝑦 −3 − 6 = 0
Note: Determining the substitution is the hardest
For the variable with the highest power number
part of this process. Make sure your indices
(ignoring ± sign), try factoring the power two out
knowledge is sound.
(by indices law) and see whether what’s left in the
bracket is consistent with the other variable.

2 1
(𝑦 ? ) − 𝑦−3 − 6 = 0
1 2 1
(𝑦 −3 ) − (𝑦−3 ) − 6 = 0

1
∴ 𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝑚 = 𝑦 −3

Step 2: Make the substitution and solve the (𝑚)2 − (𝑚) − 6 = 0

resulting equation. (𝑚 + 2)(𝑚 − 3) = 0
∴ 𝑚 = −2 𝑜𝑟 𝑚=3
Note:
Use quadratic formula (or completing square) if you
cannot factorize it.

Step 3: Re-substitute the expression from step 1

and solve for the original variable. For For
𝑚 = −2 𝑚=3
1 1
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑚 = 𝑦 −3 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑚 = 𝑦 −3

1 1
Note: ∴ 𝑦 −3 = −2 ∴ 𝑦 −3 = 3
1. Square roots always yield ± answers. 𝑦 = (−2)−3 𝑦 = (3)−3
2. Check your answer if necessary. 1 1
𝑦= 𝑦=
(−2)3 (3)3
1 1
𝑦=− 𝑦=
8 27

Finish!

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 1. QUADRATICS

Example: Solve
2𝑥 −2 = 𝑥 −1 − 1

Note: 2𝑥 −2 = 𝑥 −1 − 1 is a complex equation. But if we can express it in a quadratic form, we can then
solve it simply like how we solve quadratic equations.

Step 1: Determine the substitution to be used. 2𝑥 −2 = 𝑥 −1 − 1

Note: Determining the substitution is the hardest For the variable with the highest power number
part of this process. Make sure your indices (ignoring ± sign), try factoring the power two out
knowledge is sound. (by indices law) and see whether what’s left in the
bracket is consistent with the other variable.

2
2(𝑥 ? ) = 𝑥 −1 − 1
2(𝑥 −1 )2 = (𝑥 −1 ) − 1

∴ 𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝑄 = 𝑥 −1

Step 2: Make the substitution and solve the 2(𝑄)2 = (𝑄) − 1

resulting equation. 2𝑄 2 − 𝑄 + 1 = 0
(2𝑄 + 1)(𝑄 − 1) = 0
Note: Use quadratic formula (or completing square) 1
∴𝑄=− 𝑜𝑟 𝑄=1
if you cannot factorize it. 2

Step 3: Re-substitute the expression from step 1

and solve for the original variable. For For
1 𝑄 = −1
𝑄=−
2
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑄 = 𝑥 −1
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑄 = 𝑥 −1
Note: ∴ 𝑥 −1 = 1
1. Square roots always yield ± answers. 1
∴ 𝑥 −1 = −
2. Check your answer if necessary. 2 𝑥 = (1)−1

1 −1 1
𝑥 = (− ) 𝑥=
2 (1)1

1 𝑥=1
𝑥= 1
1
(− )
2

𝑥 = −2

Finish!

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 1. QUADRATICS

Example: Solve
9 5
+ =4
𝑥4 𝑥2
9 5
Note: 4 + 2 = 4 is a complex equation. But if we can express it in a quadratic form, we can then solve it
𝑥 𝑥
simply like how we solve quadratic equations.

Step 1: Determine the substitution to be used. 9 5

Note: Determining the substitution is the hardest
part of this process. Make sure your indices
knowledge is sound.
4 + 2=4
𝑥 𝑥
For the variable with the highest power number
(ignoring ± sign), try factoring the power two out
(by indices law) and see whether what’s left in the
bracket is consistent with the other variable.

9 5
2 + =4
(𝑥 ? ) 𝑥2

9 5
2 2
+ 2 =4
(𝑥 ) (𝑥 )

∴ 𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝑦 = 𝑥 2

Step 2: Make the substitution and solve the 9 5

2 + =4
resulting equation. (𝑦) 𝑦

Note: (𝑚𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑦 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑏𝑦 𝑦 2 )

Use quadratic formula (or completing square) if you 9 + 5𝑦 = 4𝑦 2
cannot factorize it. 4𝑦 2 − 5𝑦 − 9 = 0
(4𝑦 − 9)(𝑦 + 1)
9
∴𝑦= 𝑜𝑟 𝑦 = −1
4

Step 3: Re-substitute the expression from step 1

and solve for the original variable. For For
9 𝑦 = −1
𝑦=
4 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝑦 = 𝑥 2
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝑦 = 𝑥 2
∴ 𝑥 2 = −1
Note: 9
∴ 𝑥2 =
1. Square roots always yield ± answers. 4 𝑥 = √−1
2. Check your answer if necessary.
9 𝑥 = 𝑚𝑎𝑡ℎ𝑠 𝑒𝑟𝑟𝑜𝑟
𝑥=√
4

3
𝑥=±
2

Finish!
36
PRE-U1 NOTES – Sir Md Adib Johari
 1. QUADRATICS

Practice Questions

Solve the following equations.

1. 𝑥 4 + 144 = 25𝑥 2

2. 𝑥 + 7√𝑥 = −6
2 1
3. 𝑎3 − 8𝑎3 + 7 = 0

4. 𝑦 −2 − 6𝑦 −1 + 9 = 0
1
5. 𝑥 2 − 4 = −3𝑥

9 5
6. + =4
𝑥4 𝑥2

5
7. 3√𝑥 + = 16
√𝑥

8. −8𝑥 6 = −9𝑥 3 + 1

9. √𝑥(√𝑥 + 1) = 6

8 7
10. + =1
𝑥6 𝑥3

37
PRE-U1 NOTES – Sir Md Adib Johari