SOLVING QUADRATICS (ALL METHODS)

Front

What is a quadratic equation?

Back

A quadratic equation is a polynomial equation of degree 2, typically in the form ax² + bx + c = 0, where a, b, and c are constants and a ≠ 0.

Front

What are the methods to solve quadratic equations?

Back

The methods to solve quadratic equations include factoring, completing the square, and using the quadratic formula.

Front

What is the quadratic formula?

Back

The quadratic formula is x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / (2a), used to find the roots of a quadratic equation.

Front

How do you factor a quadratic equation?

Back

To factor a quadratic equation, find two numbers that multiply to ac (the product of a and c) and add to b (the coefficient of x).

Front

Solve by factoring: x² + 9x + 20 = 0

Back

x = -4, x = -5

Front

Solve by factoring: x² + 2x - 24 = 0

Back

x = -6, x = 4

Front

What is the discriminant in a quadratic equation?

Back

The discriminant is the part of the quadratic formula under the square root, b² - 4ac, which determines the nature of the roots.

Front

What does a positive discriminant indicate?

Back

A positive discriminant indicates that the quadratic equation has two distinct real roots.

Front

What does a zero discriminant indicate?

Back

A zero discriminant indicates that the quadratic equation has exactly one real root (a repeated root).

Front

What does a negative discriminant indicate?

Back

A negative discriminant indicates that the quadratic equation has no real roots, but two complex roots.