Show how to derive the quadratic formula

You have a general quadratic of the form: ax^2 + bx + c = 0, where a,b,c are constants (although is consistent for functions). Divide by a (assuming a/=0, this would not be a quadratic in that case):x^2 + (b/a)x + c/a = 0Complete the square on the first 2 terms:(x+(b/2a))^2 - (b/2a)^2Add the 3rd term back on:(x+(b/2a))^2 - (b/2a)^2 + c/a = 0Rearrange to have the x term on its own:(x+(b/2a))^2 = (b/2a)^2 - c/aTake the square root:x+(b/2a) = +/-sqrt{(b/2a)^2 - c/a}Subtract b/2a:x = -b/2a +/- sqrt{(b/2a)^2 - c/a}Putting the right hand side over a common denominator:x = [-b +/- sqrt{b^2-4ac}]/2a

TF
Answered by Tom F. Maths tutor

3699 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

f(x) = (x-5)/(x^2+5x+4), express this in partial fractions and hence find the integral of f(x) dx between x=0 and x=2, giving the answer as a single simplified logarithm.


Find two positive numbers whose sum is 100 and whose product is a maximum.


Find the volume of revolution when the area B is rotated 2 pi radians about the x axis


Find the values of x such that: (log3(81)+log2(32))/(log2(x)) = log2(x) (5 marks)


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