Solve y=x^2 & y=x-1/4 - Need Help

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the equations y=x^2 and y=x-1/4, focusing on the intersection points of a quadratic function and a linear function. Participants express difficulty with handling fractions in the context of these equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss rewriting the equations to eliminate fractions and consider factoring techniques. There are mentions of using the quadratic formula and plotting the curves to find intersection points.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered guidance on rewriting the equations and suggested methods for solving the quadratic equation. Multiple approaches are being explored, including algebraic manipulation and graphical interpretation.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication of confusion regarding fractions and the need for clarity in the problem setup. Participants are also reflecting on the steps necessary to solve the quadratic equation.

Kandy
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y=x^2
y=x-1/4

I really need help with this question. i don't know how to do these types of questions with fractions. i can't think, i need to sleep :zzz:
 
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Edit: I jumped a step. Both equations are equal to y, so [tex]x^2=x-\frac{1}{4}[/tex]

Get everything onto the same side of the equation. You have a quadratic equation.

Factoring fractions really isn't that much different than integers. You figure out the combinations that will equal 1/4 when multiplied together. For example:

[tex]\frac{1}{4}* 1 = \frac{1}{4}[/tex]
[tex]\frac{1}{2}*\frac{1}{2} = \frac{1}{4}[/tex]

and so on. Add the combinations together and hopefully one of them will equal your middle coefficient (1 in this case).
 
Last edited:
BobG said:
Get everything onto the same side of the equation. You have a quadratic equation.
Then, you can just use the quadratic formula to solve for the roots.
 
Kandy said:
y=x^2
y=x-1/4

I really need help with this question. i don't know how to do these types of questions with fractions. i can't think, i need to sleep :zzz:

Note that y=x-1/4 can be rewritten as 4y=4x-1. (No fractions here!)

As BobG suggests, since y=x^2 replace y in (4y=4x-1) by x^2:
4(x^2)=4x-1.

Then, as EnumaElish suggests, use the quadratic formula [after writing it in standard form].


An alternate method is to plot the two curves (one is a parabola and one is a line) then locate the intersection points.
 

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