• October 26th 2010, 04:57 PM
stuckonmath
Hey, for homework i am soposed to solve the equation ax^2 + bx + c = 0. I know that the answer is the quadratic formula, but I am not sure why. If you could explain the steps to get to the quadratic formula for this equation that would be great :D
• October 26th 2010, 05:07 PM
harish21
A quadratic equation is a second degree polynomial equation, which has the form: $ax^2+bx+c =0$

$\displayfrac{ x = \dfrac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2-4ac}}{2a}}$

You can referhere to learn a little more.
• October 26th 2010, 05:14 PM
stuckonmath
I understand what the quadratic formula is. How do I get from the first equation to the quadratic formula, like how would I solve for ax^2 + bx + c = 0?
• October 26th 2010, 05:18 PM
skeeter
Quote:

Originally Posted by stuckonmath
I understand what the quadratic formula is. How do I get from the first equation to the quadratic formula, like how would I solve for ax^2 + bx + c = 0?

if you look further into the link provided by harish21 , you'll find a derivation of the formula.
• October 26th 2010, 05:20 PM
stuckonmath
oh i see it now, thanks :D