Algebraic Equation help - Simple?

  • Thread starter Thread starter rockmorg
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on isolating the variable t in the quadratic equation x = v_0t + 1/2at². Participants confirm that this equation is a quadratic in t and recommend using the quadratic formula to solve for t. The formula provided is x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / 2a, which is essential for finding the roots of the equation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quadratic equations
  • Familiarity with the quadratic formula
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
  • Knowledge of variables in physics equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Practice solving quadratic equations using the quadratic formula
  • Explore applications of quadratic equations in physics
  • Learn about the discriminant and its significance in determining the nature of roots
  • Study the derivation of the quadratic formula from standard form
USEFUL FOR

Students studying algebra, educators teaching mathematics, and anyone looking to refresh their knowledge of quadratic equations and their applications in physics.

rockmorg
Messages
22
Reaction score
0
Hey all -

I'm just looking for some help on an algebraic equation, I seem to have forgotten how to isolate t from this type of equation --

x = v_0t + 1/2at^2

What do you all think?

Thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
It's a quadratic in t.

Use the quadratic formula to solve for t.

if ax² + bx + c = 0
then
[tex]x = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}[/tex]
 

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 64 ·
3
Replies
64
Views
8K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • · Replies 32 ·
2
Replies
32
Views
3K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
2K