Derive the quadratic formula (Hint: complete the square)

Firstly, the quadratic formula finds the roots of a quadratic equation. 
So this means f(x) = 0. A general polynomial with highest power 2 looks like: ax+ bx +c.
Usings the two facts we just stated, we solve for the roots of ax+ bx +c = 0. ax+ bx +c = 0
x+ (b/a)x + (c/a) = 0
USINGING THE HINT
(x + (b/2a))- (b/2a)2 + (c/a) = 0
(x + (b/2a))2 = (b/2a)2 -(c/a)  
Make the right hand side all one fraction
(x + (b/2a))2 = (b2/4a2) - (4ac/4a2)
(x + (b/2a))2 = (b2-4ac) / 4a2
Squareroot both sides
x + (b/2a) = (+/-) (b2-4ac)1/2 / 2a          (The (+/-) comes from the squareroot having 2 sol's. e.g 41/2 = 2 or -2)
x = (-b (+/-) (b2-4ac)1/2) / 2a

RK
Answered by Riu K. Maths tutor

3870 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

The equation " x^3-3x+1=0 " has three real roots. Show that one of the roots lies between −2 and −1


Integrate the following function by parts and reduce it to it's simplest form. f(x) = ln(x).


Differentiate y= exp(cos^2(x)+sin^2(x)) by using the chain rule.


A cricket player is capable of throwing a ball at velocity v. Neglecting air resistance, what angle from the horizontal should they throw at to achieve maximum distance before contact with the ground? How far is that distance?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning