Solving quadratic equations is more involved than solving linear equations just because there are several methods that we can use. When we solved linear equations in the first unit, our goal was to get the variable isolated on one side. This was relatively straightforward as linear equations involved a variable, such as \(x\), that is only raised to the first power. When a variable is raised to the second power with quadratic equations, the strategies we must use change. However, what does not change is that we are looking for values of the variable that make that statement true. We will look at four different methods below. You will be expected to know how to use each method, but the majority of the time, you will be able to choose the method you would like to use.
Solve Quadratic Equations by Factoring
Solve Quadratic Equations by Square Roots
Solve Quadratic Equations by Completing the Square
Solve Quadratic Equations with Quadratic Formula
Guided Learning Extension: Factor over the Integers, Reals and Complex number sets
Guided Learning Extension: Find the sum and product of roots
Solve Quadratic Equations by Factoring
Solve Quadratic Equations by Square Roots
Solve Quadratic Equations by Completing the Square
Solve Quadratic Equations with Quadratic Formula
Guided Learning Extension: Factor over the Integers, Reals and Complex number sets
Guided Learning Extension: Find the sum and product of roots