Find the Solutions of a Quadratic Equation Using the Quadratic Formula

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the solutions of the quadratic equation $x^2+4x-8=0$ using the quadratic formula. Participants explore the derivation of solutions and address potential errors in calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the quadratic formula and derives one solution as $x=1.46$, while also noting a second solution of $x=-5.46$.
  • Another participant confirms the second solution as $x=-2 - 2\sqrt{3}$, suggesting it is derived from the same formula.
  • A later reply corrects a previous statement, indicating a potential typing mistake regarding the second solution, asserting it should be $-2 - 2\sqrt{3}$.
  • There is an acknowledgment of a possible error in the expression of the second solution, but no consensus is reached on the correct form.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the correct form of the second solution, with some proposing $-2 - 2\sqrt{3}$ and others suggesting a different expression. The discussion remains unresolved on this point.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved issues regarding the correct interpretation of the quadratic formula's output, particularly concerning the second solution's expression and its derivation.

mathlearn
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By completing the square or by any other method , find the solutions of the quadratic equation , to two decimal places $x^2+4x-8=0$.

Using the quadratic formula,(Smile)

$x=\frac{-b\pm\sqrt{b^2-4ac}}{2a}$.

$x=\frac{-4\pm\sqrt{16+32}}{2}$.

$x=\frac{-4\pm\sqrt{48}}{2}$.

$x=\frac{-4\pm\sqrt{3}\sqrt{16}}{2}$.

$x=\frac{-4\pm 4\sqrt{3}}{2}$.

$x={-2\pm 2\sqrt{3}}$.

$x= 1.46$.

As the problem states there is another value for x which is -5.46, How to derive it using the quadratic formula ? (Happy)
 
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mathlearn said:
By completing the square or by any other method , find the solutions of the quadratic equation , to two decimal places $x^2+4x-8=0$.

Using the quadratic formula,(Smile)

$x=\frac{-b\pm\sqrt{b^2-4ac}}{2a}$.

$x=\frac{-4\pm\sqrt{16+32}}{2}$.

$x=\frac{-4\pm\sqrt{48}}{2}$.

$x=\frac{-4\pm\sqrt{3}\sqrt{16}}{2}$.

$x=\frac{-4\pm 4\sqrt{3}}{2}$.

$x={-2\pm 2\sqrt{3}}$.

$x= 1.46$.

As the problem states there is another value for x which is -5.46, How to derive it using the quadratic formula ? (Happy)
$x={-2\pm 2\sqrt{3}}$.

$x= 1.46$.

You have another solution: [math]-2 - 2 \sqrt{3}[/math]

-Dan
 
topsquark said:
You have another solution: [math]-2 - 2 \sqrt{2}[/math]

-Dan

(Happy) Thank you top squark

(Nod) A typing mistake I guess, [math]-2 - 2 \sqrt{3}[/math] , I guess it should be . Correct ? (Thinking)
 
Last edited:
mathlearn said:
(Happy) Thank you top squark

(Nod) A typing mistake I guess, [math]-2 - 2 \sqrt{3}[/math] , I guess it should be . Correct ? (Thinking)
Yes. Thanks for the catch!

-Dan
 

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