What is the quadratic formula for solving ax^2 + bx + c = 0?

Study for the Algebra 1 Honors End-of-Course Test. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is the quadratic formula for solving ax^2 + bx + c = 0?

Explanation:
The quadratic formula solves any quadratic by taking the opposite of the coefficient b, adding or subtracting the square root of the discriminant, and dividing by 2a. The discriminant is b^2 - 4ac, and the ± ensures we get both possible roots. The correct expression is x = (-b ± sqrt(b^2 - 4ac)) / (2a). This form includes the necessary negative b, the ± to cover both roots, and the 2a in the denominator. Forms that drop the negative sign on b, omit the ±, or give only one sign don’t produce all the roots or the correct values in general.

The quadratic formula solves any quadratic by taking the opposite of the coefficient b, adding or subtracting the square root of the discriminant, and dividing by 2a. The discriminant is b^2 - 4ac, and the ± ensures we get both possible roots. The correct expression is x = (-b ± sqrt(b^2 - 4ac)) / (2a). This form includes the necessary negative b, the ± to cover both roots, and the 2a in the denominator. Forms that drop the negative sign on b, omit the ±, or give only one sign don’t produce all the roots or the correct values in general.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy