Have I done the quadratic equation correctly?

In summary, the best way to check if you have done the quadratic equation correctly is to substitute the values of your solutions into the original equation. Some common mistakes people make when solving the quadratic equation include forgetting to distribute the negative sign when using the quadratic formula and not simplifying the final solution. There is a specific order to solving the quadratic equation, which involves identifying the values of a, b, and c and then using the quadratic formula or factoring to find the solutions. The quadratic formula can be used for any quadratic equation, but if the equation can be easily factored, it may be quicker to use factoring instead. If you are still unsure if you have solved the quadratic equation correctly, you can always double check your work by
  • #1
Gringo123
141
0
x2 + 3x + 2 = 0

(x + 1) (x + 2)

so x = -1 or -2

Is that right?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Yes. You can check if you factorized correctly by expanding your factors out.
or... you can check if your answers are correct by substituting them into the quadratic.

If the left-hand side is equal to the right-hand side, then you've found the correct values for x.
 

FAQ: Have I done the quadratic equation correctly?

1. How do I know if I have done the quadratic equation correctly?

The best way to check if you have done the quadratic equation correctly is to substitute the values of your solutions into the original equation. If the equation is satisfied, then you have done the quadratic equation correctly.

2. What are the common mistakes people make when solving the quadratic equation?

One of the most common mistakes people make when solving the quadratic equation is forgetting to distribute the negative sign when using the quadratic formula. Another mistake is not simplifying the final solution, resulting in an incorrect answer.

3. Is there a specific order to solving the quadratic equation?

Yes, there is a specific order to solving the quadratic equation. First, you must identify the values of a, b, and c in the equation ax² + bx + c = 0. Then, you can use the quadratic formula or factoring to find the solutions.

4. Can I use the quadratic formula for any quadratic equation?

Yes, the quadratic formula can be used to solve any quadratic equation. However, if the equation can be easily factored, it may be quicker to use factoring instead.

5. What should I do if I am still unsure if I have solved the quadratic equation correctly?

If you are still unsure if you have solved the quadratic equation correctly, you can always double check your work by using a graphing calculator or asking a teacher or tutor for help. It is always better to double check your work to ensure accuracy.

Back
Top