Why is the quadratic formula giving me the wrong answers for 4x^2+10x=5?

AI Thread Summary
The quadratic equation 4x^2 + 10x - 5 = 0 is being incorrectly solved, leading to wrong answers. The miscalculation stems from not properly applying the quadratic formula, particularly in the division step. The square root of 180 is approximately 13, and the numerator should yield about 3 when correctly calculated. The correct answers, after proper calculation, are approximately -1.25 ± 1.677. Accurate use of the formula and calculator is essential for obtaining the right solutions.
Amaz1ng
Messages
42
Reaction score
0
But seriously, why am I getting the wrong answer here:

<br /> 4x^2+10x= 5<br />

4x^2+10x - 5 = 0

x=\frac{-10+\sqrt{180}}{8}
Answers Incorrect:

3.461 and -23
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
Try it again. Your setup is right (although remember that + can also be a -)
 
My friend, I have no clue why I'm getting the wrong answers. O_o

I was under the impression that you just plug the numbers in and it outputs correct answers.
 
Learn how to use your calculator :P

I mean think about it, the square root of 180 is about 13, so the numerator ~13 - 10, which is about 3, then you're going to divide by 8. So neither of your answers make sense obviously.
 
My calculator says

-10 + \sqrt{180} = 3.416

So, you have two problems:
1. 3.461 is a typo
2. you forgot to divide by 8.
 
If you use ALL of the operations you listed, then you'll get the correct answers.

You're off by a factor of about 8. :smile:
 
I got .4271 and -2.9271
 
\frac{{ - 10 \pm \sqrt {180} }}{8} = - \frac{{10}}{8} \pm \sqrt {\frac{{180}}{{64}}} = - 1.25 \pm \sqrt {2.8125} = - 1.25 \pm 1.677
 

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
4K
Back
Top