Quadratic equation questions are a fundamental part of algebra and appear regularly in exams and practical applications. These questions require a solid grasp of the quadratic equation formula, the nature of roots, and how to approach different solution methods. In this article, we’ll explore definitions, formulas, types of roots, graphs, and multiple solved examples to sharpen your problem-solving skills.
Table of Contents
Quadratic Equation Definition :
A quadratic equation is a second-degree polynomial equation in one variable, generally represented as:
ax² + bx + c = 0
where a ≠ 0 and a, b, c are real numbers. The values of x that satisfy the equation are called the roots of the equation.
To solve for x, we use the quadratic formula:
x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / (2a)
This formula is derived using the method of completing the square and works for all types of quadratic equations.
The discriminant D = b² - 4ac determines the nature of the roots:
D > 0: Two real and distinct roots
D = 0: Two real and equal roots
D < 0: Two complex roots
Let α and β be the roots of the equation:
Sum of roots: α + β = -b/a
Product of roots: αβ = c/a
This is useful when you're asked to find an equation from its roots.
The graph of a quadratic equation is a parabola:
Opens upward if a > 0
Opens downward if a < 0
The vertex of the parabola lies at x = -b/2a
The discriminant indicates if the parabola touches, intersects, or doesn’t meet the x-axis
Find the roots using the quadratic formula
Identify the nature of the roots
Frame equations given sum and product of roots
Determine range of values for a condition on roots
Solve real-life application-based quadratic problems
Q1. Solve the quadratic equation:
2x² - 7x + 3 = 0
Solution:
a = 2, b = -7, c = 3
D = (-7)² - 4×2×3 = 49 - 24 = 25
x = (7 ± √25)/4 = (7 ± 5)/4
x = 3, x = 0.5
Q2. Find the value of k for which the roots of x² + 4kx + 8 = 0 are equal.
Solution:
D = (4k)² - 4×1×8 = 16k² - 32
Set D = 0:
16k² - 32 = 0 → k² = 2 → k = ±√2
Q3. Form a quadratic equation whose roots are 5 and 7.
Solution:
Sum = 5 + 7 = 12, Product = 5×7 = 35
Equation: x² - 12x + 35 = 0
Q4. Determine the nature of roots of 4x² + 4x + 1 = 0
Solution:
D = 4² - 4×4×1 = 16 - 16 = 0
So, roots are real and equal.
Q5. For what values of k does x² - (k - 2)x + k + 4 = 0 have real roots?
Solution:
D = (k - 2)² - 4(k + 4) ≥ 0
→ k² - 8k - 12 ≥ 0
→ k ∈ (-∞, 2 - 2√4) ∪ (2 + 2√4, ∞)
Always compute the discriminant first
Use sum and product of roots for quick formulation
Factorisation is faster when roots are integers
Use graphs to visualise root nature
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Factorization of a Quadratic Equation : Learn the easiest tricks to factor quadratic equations - visit our blog at Orchids The International School now!
A: x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / (2a)
A: Check the discriminant D:
D > 0: real and unequal
D = 0: real and equal
D < 0: complex
A: If roots are p and q, then the equation is x² - (p + q)x + pq = 0
A: Yes. They're used in physics (projectile motion), business (profit curves), engineering (parabolic structures), and more.
A: Use factorisation when possible; else apply the quadratic formula.
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