mathdad Full Member Joined Apr 24, 2015 Messages 941 May 7, 2019 #1 Solving ax^2 + bx + c = 0 for x leads to the quadratic formula. In the formula itself, where does 4 and 2 come from?
Solving ax^2 + bx + c = 0 for x leads to the quadratic formula. In the formula itself, where does 4 and 2 come from?
MarkFL Super Moderator Staff member Joined Nov 24, 2012 Messages 3,021 May 7, 2019 #2 Try solving it by completing the square. Then you'll see for yourself exactly where everything comes from. It's a good exercise too.
Try solving it by completing the square. Then you'll see for yourself exactly where everything comes from. It's a good exercise too.
Steven G Elite Member Joined Dec 30, 2014 Messages 14,603 May 7, 2019 #3 ax^2 + bx + c = 0 ax^2 + bx = -c x^2 + (b/a)x = -c/a Continue with completing the square.
