Complete the square, then find the value of x that would make the bracket zero ax^2 + bx + c = 0 line of symmetry is x = (-b/2a)
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-- The roots of a quadratic equation are the values of 'x' that make y=0 . -- When you graph a quadratic equation, the graph is a parabola. -- The points on the parabola where y=0 are the points where it crosses the x-axis. -- If it doesn't cross the x-axis, then the roots are complex or pure imaginary, and you can't see them on a graph.
The quadratic equation is used to find the intercepts of a function (F(x)=x^(2*n), n being an even number) along its primary axis (typically the x axis). Many equations follow this form. The information given by the quadratic equation depends on what your function is pertaining to. If say you have a velocity vs time graph, when the function crosses the xaxis your particle has changed from a positive velocity to a negative velocity. This information can be useful to determine the accompanying behavior of your position. The quadratic equation is simply a tool to find intercepts of a function.
When you need to find the roots of a quadratic equation and factorisation does not work (or you cannot find the factors). The quadratic equation ALWAYS works. And when appropriate, it will give the imaginary roots which, judging by this question, you may not yet be ready for.
The quadratic formula can be used to find the solutions of a quadratic equation - not a linear or cubic, or non-polynomial equation. The quadratic formula will always provide the solutions to a quadratic equation - whether the solutions are rational, real or complex numbers.
When an equation cannot be solved for "x" to find the zeroes, the quadratic formula can be used instead for the same purpose.