Quadratic Equations
Quadratic equations are fundamental mathematical expressions characterized by the degree of two, taking the standard form:
ax² + bx + c = 0 (where a ≠ 0). In solving these equations, we often encounter two primary methods:
1. Factorization: This involves rewriting the quadratic in terms of its factors. For example, the quadratic equation x² - 5x + 6 = 0 can be factored as (x - 2)(x - 3) = 0, providing solutions x = 2 or x = 3.
2. Quadratic Formula: This is a universal method applicable to any quadratic equation, expressed as:
x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / 2a.
Understanding quadratic equations is crucial for mastering algebra and transcends into more advanced mathematics.