Solving the Mystery of Quadratic Equations

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SUMMARY

The term "quadratic" in quadratic equations derives from the Latin word "quadratus," meaning "square," reflecting the squared variable in the leading term of the polynomial. This terminology emphasizes the geometric interpretation of the equation, as a square has four sides, linking the concept of squaring a number to the shape. The discussion clarifies that the association with the number four is secondary to the primary meaning related to squaring.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of polynomial degrees
  • Familiarity with basic algebraic concepts
  • Knowledge of geometric shapes and their properties
  • Basic Latin terminology related to mathematics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the history of mathematical terminology, focusing on Latin roots
  • Explore the properties of quadratic equations in algebra
  • Study the geometric interpretations of polynomials
  • Learn about the applications of quadratic equations in real-world scenarios
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Students of mathematics, educators teaching algebra, and anyone interested in the etymology of mathematical terms will benefit from this discussion.

Wannabeagenius
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Hi All,

I have a semantics question.

Why is the quadratic equation called what it is?

A polynomial of degree two is called a quadratic polymonial but I've always associated the root quad to mean four!

Thanks in advance.

Bob:smile:
 
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From wikipedia, "Quadratic equations are called quadratic because quadratus is Latin for "square"; in the leading term the variable is squared."

I always wondered that as well to be honest.
 
Well, what do you call a rectangle whose length is x and breadth is x, and whose area is x^2?

Not a..square?
 
If you get exercised over this sort of thing (I know I do!), you might find this website to be of interest:
http://pballew.net/etyindex.html

It notes that "quadratic" is from the Latin for "to make square" or, as Lamoid said, simple "square". Of course, a square has four sides which is where your use of the word is from.
 

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