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Use the quadratic formula. A calculator will help with the squares and fractions and especially with square roots.
If the equation is ax2 +bx +c = 0, then x = (-b +/- sqrt(b2-4ac))/2a.
With a simple equation like x2+5x-6=0, you can solve by factoring: (x+6)(x-1)=0 <=> x=-6 or x=1. However, the quadratic formula will work on any equation.
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Most quadratic equations have how many solutions?
2
Why are there usually two solutions to a quadratic equation?
In the graph of a quadratic equation, the plotted points form a parabola. This parabola usually intersects the X axis at two different points. Those two points are also the two solutions for the quadratic equation. Alternatively: Quadratic equations are formed by multiplying two linear equations together. Each of the linear equations has one solution - multiplying two together means that the solution for either is also a solution for the quadratic equation - hence you get two possible solutions for the quadratic unless both linear equations have exactly the same solution. Example: Two linear equations : x - a = 0 x - b = 0 Multiplied together: (x - a) ( x - b ) = 0 Either a or b is a solution to this quadratic equation. Hence most often you have two solutions but never more than two and always at least one solution.
What is the disadvantage of using the substitution method in solving linear equations rather than the graph method?
There are no disadvantages. There are three main ways to solve linear equations which are: substitution, graphing, and elimination. The method that is most appropriate can be found by looking at the equation.
Explain how solving inequalities is alike and different from solving equations?
Most of the steps are the same. The main difference is that if you multiply or divide both sides of an inequality by a NEGATIVE number, you must change the direction of the inequality sign (for example, change "less than" to "greater than").
How do you find the solution of a quadratic equation graphically?
You write the equation in such a way that you have zero on the right side. Then you graph the expression on the left side of the equal sign, and check where it touches the x-axis. Note that this method works for most common equations.
