Algebraic Equation help - Simple?

Thread starter rockmorg
Start date Sep 18, 2005

AI Thread Summary

To isolate t in the equation x = v_0t + 1/2at^2, it is recognized as a quadratic equation in t. The quadratic formula can be applied, where if ax² + bx + c = 0, then t can be solved using t = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / 2a. The coefficients a, b, and c need to be identified from the rearranged equation. This method provides a systematic approach to find the value of t. Utilizing the quadratic formula is essential for solving such equations effectively.

Sep 18, 2005

rockmorg

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!

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Sep 18, 2005

Fermat

Homework Helper

It's a quadratic in t.

Use the quadratic formula to solve for t.

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

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