MHB How Do A and B as Roots Verify the Properties of a Quadratic Equation?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on verifying the properties of a quadratic equation, specifically the relationships between the roots A and B and the coefficients a, b, and c in the equation ax^2 + bx + c = 0. The key formulas established are A + B = -b/a and AB = c/a. Participants suggest methods for verification, including direct calculation of the roots using the quadratic formula and coefficient comparison. The conversation also touches on formatting issues with LaTeX on mobile devices, but the primary focus remains on the mathematical properties of quadratic equations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quadratic equations and their standard form
  • Familiarity with the quadratic formula: A = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / 2a
  • Knowledge of polynomial coefficient comparison techniques
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the quadratic formula in detail
  • Learn about polynomial roots and their properties
  • Explore advanced topics in algebra, such as Vieta's formulas
  • Investigate the implications of root behavior on graphing quadratic functions
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Students, educators, and anyone interested in mastering quadratic equations and their properties, particularly in algebra and precalculus contexts.

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Let A and B be the roots of the quadratic equation

ax^2 + bx + c = 0. Verify each statement below.

1. A + B = -b/a

2. AB = c/a

I need help getting started for parts 1 and 2. I will do the math.
 
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RTCNTC said:
Let A and B be the roots of the quadratic equation

ax^2 + bx + c = 0. Verify each statement below.

1. A + B = -b/a

2. AB = c/a

I need help getting started for parts 1 and 2. I will do the math.
You can do it by hand:
[math]A = \frac{-b + \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}[/math]

[math]B = \frac{-b - \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}[/math]

Add them together and you get A + B = -b/a. And you can do the multiplication for the second part. If you run into troubles, of course feel free to post us.

-Dan
 
topsquark said:
You can do it by hand:
[math]A = \frac{-b + \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}[/math]

[math]B = \frac{-b - \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}[/math]

Add them together and you get A + B = -b/a. And you can do the multiplication for the second part. If you run into troubles, of course feel free to post us.

-Dan

I get it. Thanks.
 
I think it is simpler just to compare a(x- A)(x- B) with ax^2+ bx+ c. Multiply the first and compare coefficients.
 
HallsofIvy said:
I think it is simpler just to compare a(x- A)(x- B) with ax^2+ bx+ c. Multiply the first and compare coefficients.

The word WITH is covering your LaTex.
 
RTCNTC said:
The word WITH is covering your LaTex.

For the record, on a mobile device the fonts are typically increased in size automatically.
However, the MathJax that we use to render our formulas doesn't know about this, meaning that inline latex isn't resized to match.
It's only on mobile devices that inline latex is a problem. On tablets or laptops this problem does not occur. Latex on separate lines does not have this problem either.
 
I like Serena said:
For the record, on a mobile device the fonts are typically increased in size automatically.
However, the MathJax that we use to render our formulas doesn't know about this, meaning that inline latex isn't resized to match.
It's only on mobile devices that inline latex is a problem. On tablets or laptops this problem does not occur. Latex on separate lines does not have this problem either.

I do not have a laptop or computer.
 
RTCNTC said:
I do not have a laptop or computer.

On my mobile device the problem is a bit less in landscape mode, meaning the inline latex formulas are at least usually more or less readable.
 
I like Serena said:
On my mobile device the problem is a bit less in landscape mode, meaning the inline latex formulas are at least usually more or less readable.

Good for you. Let's get back to math.
 
  • #10
RTCNTC said:
Good for you. Let's get back to math.

In all fairness, and I don't mean to be antagonistic at all, you brought up the issue again that inline LaTeX is a problem on your device. It would be unreasonable to expect the community at large to suddenly change our posting styles, developed over many years, to suit mobile devices, when most of us posting help are using PCs.

I like Serena was just trying to help by giving you a suggestion to minimize the issue. I have found him to know what he's talking about, whenever he talks. :D
 
  • #11
I like everyone here. Let's get back to math.
 
  • #12
topsquark said:
You can do it by hand:
[math]A = \frac{-b + \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}[/math]

[math]B = \frac{-b - \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}[/math]

Add them together and you get A + B = -b/a. And you can do the multiplication for the second part. If you run into troubles, of course feel free to post us.

-Dan

Question:

Can I use the values of A and B in your reply to this question to show as given below?

1. A^2 + B^2 = (b^2 - 2ac)/(a^2)

2. 1/A^2 + 1/B^2 = (b^2 - 2ac)/(c^2)
 

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