Solving Quadratic

Equations
Definition of a Quadratic Equation
A quadratic equation in x is an equation that can be written
in the general form
ax 2 + bx + x = 0,
where a, b, and c are real numbers, with a  0. A quadratic
equation in x is also called a second-degree polynomial
equation in x.
The Zero-Product Principle
If the product of two algebraic expressions
is zero, then at least one of the factors is
equal to zero.
If AB=0, then A=0 or B=0
Solving a Quadratic Equation by Factoring
1. If necessary, rewrite the equation in the general
form ax 2 +bx+c=0, moving all terms to one side,
thereby obtaining zero on the other side.
2. Factor completely.
3. Apply the zero-product principle, setting each factor
containing a variable equal to zero.
4. Solve the equations in step 3.
5. Check the solutions in the original equation
Example
Solve by factoring:

x − 5x + 6 = 0
2
Example

Solve by factoring:

x + 3x = 40
2
Example

Solve by factoring:

2 x −11x + 15 = 0
2
Solving Quadratic Equations
Using the Quadratic Formula
The Quadratic Formula
The solutions of a quadratic equation in general
form ax 2 + bx+c=0, with a  0, are given by the
quadratic formula
-b  b 2 − 4ac
x=
2a
Example

Solve by using the Quadratic Formula:

x − 6 x + 30 = 0
2

2x − 5x + 8 = 0
2
The Discriminant
Example

Compute the discriminant and determine the

number and type of solutions:

2 x − 3x + 7 = 0
2

x + 5x + 4 = 0
2

x − 6x −1 = 0
2
Determining Which
Method to Use
Applications
 Example

A machine produces open boxes using square sheets of metal. The

figure illustrates that the machine cuts equal sized squares measuring
2 inches on a side from the corners, and then shapes the metal into an
open box. Write the equation for the volume of this box. If the volume is
50 cubic inches, what is the length of the side of the original metal.
 Example
A 42 inch television is a television whose screen’s
diagonal length is 42 inches. If a television’s
screen height is 26 inches, find the width of the
42 inches
television screen
26 inches
Solve by the square root property.
( x-4 ) = 15
2

(a) −4  15
(b) 4  15
(c)  19
(d) 4  15
Solve by completing the square.
x − 12 x + 3 = 0
2

(a) 4  39
(b) 6  33
(c) −6  33
(d) 12  39