Given a quadratic equation of the form ,

you do the quadratic formula to solve for x.

Using the Quadratic Formula

Step 1. Identify a, b, & c.
Step 2. Plug a, b & c into the formula above.
Step 3. Simplify what is underneath the radical sign using the calculator.
Step 4. Write the result.
Step 5. Simplify the radical using perfect square factors. (If possible)
Step 6. Write the result.
Step 7. Split the problem.
Step 8. Simplify both numerators. (If possible)
Step 9. Write the result.
Step 10. Simplify both divisions.

Solving quadratic equations by using the quadratic formula is only one method. You can also solve quadratic equations by Completing the Square.

Relative Function

A relative function is related to the given equation and is

The quadratic formula finds the zeros of a quadratic function. (Do not confuse this with the equation.)

Examples Done by Mr. Vizza

Directions: Please solve for x in the following equations by using the quadratic formula.

Step 1. Identify a, b & c

a=3 b=4 c=-10

Step 2. Plug a, b & c into the formula.

Steps 3 & 4. Simplify what is underneath the radical using the calculator. Write the result.

Steps 5 & 6. Simplify the radical using perfect square factors. Write the result.

Step 7. Split the problem.

Steps 8 & 9. Simplify both numerators.

Can't simplify the numerators because of unlike terms.

Step 10. Simplify both divisions.

Problems that You Should Practice

Directions: Please solve the following equations using the quadratic formula.

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