How to find the discriminant and roots of a quadratic equation. Solving quadratic equations: root formula, examples

AT modern society the ability to operate with equations containing a squared variable can be useful in many areas of activity and is widely used in practice in scientific and technical developments. This can be evidenced by the design of sea and river vessels, aircraft and missiles. With the help of such calculations, the trajectories of the movement of various bodies, including space objects, are determined. Solution Examples quadratic equations are used not only in economic forecasting, in the design and construction of buildings, but also in the most ordinary everyday circumstances. They may be needed on camping trips, at sports events, in stores when shopping and in other very common situations.

Let's break the expression into component factors

The degree of an equation is determined by the maximum value of the degree of the variable that the given expression contains. If it is equal to 2, then such an equation is called a quadratic equation.

If we speak in the language of formulas, then these expressions, no matter how they look, can always be brought to the form when the left side of the expression consists of three terms. Among them: ax 2 (that is, a variable squared with its coefficient), bx (an unknown without a square with its coefficient) and c (free component, that is, an ordinary number). All this on the right side is equal to 0. In the case when such a polynomial does not have one of its constituent terms, with the exception of ax 2, it is called an incomplete quadratic equation. Examples with the solution of such problems, in which the value of the variables is not difficult to find, should be considered first.

If the expression looks like it has two terms on the right side of the expression, more precisely ax 2 and bx, it is easiest to find x by bracketing the variable. Now our equation will look like this: x(ax+b). Further, it becomes obvious that either x=0, or the problem is reduced to finding a variable from the following expression: ax+b=0. This is dictated by one of the properties of multiplication. The rule says that the product of two factors results in 0 only if one of them is zero.

Example

x=0 or 8x - 3 = 0

As a result, we get two roots of the equation: 0 and 0.375.

Equations of this kind can describe the movement of bodies under the action of gravity, which began to move from a certain point, taken as the origin. Here the mathematical notation takes the following form: y = v 0 t + gt 2 /2. By substituting the necessary values, equating the right side to 0 and finding possible unknowns, you can find out the time elapsed from the moment the body rises to the moment it falls, as well as many other quantities. But we will talk about this later.

Factoring an Expression

The rule described above makes it possible to solve these problems in more complex cases. Consider examples with the solution of quadratic equations of this type.

X2 - 33x + 200 = 0

This square trinomial is complete. First, we transform the expression and decompose it into factors. There are two of them: (x-8) and (x-25) = 0. As a result, we have two roots 8 and 25.

Examples with the solution of quadratic equations in grade 9 allow this method to find a variable in expressions not only of the second, but even of the third and fourth orders.

For example: 2x 3 + 2x 2 - 18x - 18 = 0. When factoring the right side into factors with a variable, there are three of them, that is, (x + 1), (x-3) and (x + 3).

As a result, it becomes obvious that this equation has three roots: -3; -one; 3.

Extracting the square root

Another case of an incomplete second-order equation is an expression written in the language of letters in such a way that the right side is built from the components ax 2 and c. Here, to obtain the value of the variable, the free term is transferred to the right side, and after that, the square root is extracted from both sides of the equality. It should be noted that in this case there are usually two roots of the equation. The only exceptions are equalities that do not contain the term c at all, where the variable is equal to zero, as well as variants of expressions when the right side turns out to be negative. In the latter case, there are no solutions at all, since the above actions cannot be performed with roots. Examples of solutions to quadratic equations of this type should be considered.

In this case, the roots of the equation will be the numbers -4 and 4.

Calculation of the area of ​​land

The need for this kind of calculations appeared in ancient times, because the development of mathematics in those distant times was largely due to the need to determine the areas and perimeters of land plots with the greatest accuracy.

We should also consider examples with the solution of quadratic equations compiled on the basis of problems of this kind.

So, let's say there is a rectangular piece of land, the length of which is 16 meters more than the width. You should find the length, width and perimeter of the site, if it is known that its area is 612 m 2.

Getting down to business, at first we will make the necessary equation. Let's denote the width of the section as x, then its length will be (x + 16). It follows from what has been written that the area is determined by the expression x (x + 16), which, according to the condition of our problem, is 612. This means that x (x + 16) \u003d 612.

The solution of complete quadratic equations, and this expression is just that, cannot be done in the same way. Why? Although the left side of it still contains two factors, the product of them is not 0 at all, so other methods are used here.

Discriminant

First of all, we will make the necessary transformations, then the appearance of this expression will look like this: x 2 + 16x - 612 = 0. This means that we have received an expression in the form corresponding to the previously specified standard, where a=1, b=16, c= -612.

This can be an example of solving quadratic equations through the discriminant. Here necessary calculations produced according to the scheme: D = b 2 - 4ac. This auxiliary value not only makes it possible to find the desired values ​​in the second-order equation, it determines the number of possible options. In case D>0, there are two of them; for D=0 there is one root. In case D<0, никаких шансов для решения у уравнения вообще не имеется.

About roots and their formula

In our case, the discriminant is: 256 - 4(-612) = 2704. This indicates that our problem has an answer. If you know, to, the solution of quadratic equations must be continued using the formula below. It allows you to calculate the roots.

This means that in the presented case: x 1 =18, x 2 =-34. The second option in this dilemma cannot be a solution, because the size of the land plot cannot be measured in negative values, which means that x (that is, the width of the plot) is 18 m. From here we calculate the length: 18+16=34, and the perimeter 2(34+ 18) = 104 (m 2).

Examples and tasks

We continue the study of quadratic equations. Examples and a detailed solution of several of them will be given below.

1) 15x2 + 20x + 5 = 12x2 + 27x + 1

Let's transfer everything to the left side of the equality, make a transformation, that is, we get the form of the equation, which is usually called the standard one, and equate it to zero.

15x 2 + 20x + 5 - 12x 2 - 27x - 1 = 0

Having added similar ones, we determine the discriminant: D \u003d 49 - 48 \u003d 1. So our equation will have two roots. We calculate them according to the above formula, which means that the first of them will be equal to 4/3, and the second 1.

2) Now we will reveal riddles of a different kind.

Let's find out if there are roots x 2 - 4x + 5 = 1 here at all? To obtain an exhaustive answer, we bring the polynomial to the corresponding familiar form and calculate the discriminant. In this example, it is not necessary to solve the quadratic equation, because the essence of the problem is not at all in this. In this case, D \u003d 16 - 20 \u003d -4, which means that there really are no roots.

Vieta's theorem

It is convenient to solve quadratic equations through the above formulas and the discriminant, when the square root is extracted from the value of the latter. But this does not always happen. However, there are many ways to get the values ​​of variables in this case. Example: solving quadratic equations using Vieta's theorem. It is named after a man who lived in 16th-century France and had a brilliant career thanks to his mathematical talent and connections at court. His portrait can be seen in the article.

The pattern that the famous Frenchman noticed was as follows. He proved that the sum of the roots of the equation is equal to -p=b/a, and their product corresponds to q=c/a.

Now let's look at specific tasks.

3x2 + 21x - 54 = 0

For simplicity, let's transform the expression:

x 2 + 7x - 18 = 0

Using the Vieta theorem, this will give us the following: the sum of the roots is -7, and their product is -18. From here we get that the roots of the equation are the numbers -9 and 2. Having made a check, we will make sure that these values ​​of the variables really fit into the expression.

Graph and Equation of a Parabola

The concepts of a quadratic function and quadratic equations are closely related. Examples of this have already been given previously. Now let's look at some mathematical puzzles in a little more detail. Any equation of the described type can be represented visually. Such a dependence, drawn in the form of a graph, is called a parabola. Its various types are shown in the figure below.

Any parabola has a vertex, that is, a point from which its branches come out. If a>0, they go high to infinity, and when a<0, они рисуются вниз. Простейшим примером подобной зависимости является функция y = x 2 . В данном случае в уравнении x 2 =0 неизвестное может принимать только одно значение, то есть х=0, а значит существует только один корень. Это неудивительно, ведь здесь D=0, потому что a=1, b=0, c=0. Выходит формула корней (точнее одного корня) квадратного уравнения запишется так: x = -b/2a.

Visual representations of functions help to solve any equations, including quadratic ones. This method is called graphic. And the value of the x variable is the abscissa coordinate at the points where the graph line intersects with 0x. The coordinates of the vertex can be found by the formula just given x 0 = -b / 2a. And, substituting the resulting value into the original equation of the function, you can find out y 0, that is, the second coordinate of the parabola vertex belonging to the y-axis.

The intersection of the branches of the parabola with the abscissa axis

There are a lot of examples with the solution of quadratic equations, but there are also general patterns. Let's consider them. It is clear that the intersection of the graph with the 0x axis for a>0 is possible only if y 0 takes negative values. And for a<0 координата у 0 должна быть положительна. Для указанных вариантов D>0. Otherwise D<0. А когда D=0, вершина параболы расположена непосредственно на оси 0х.

From the graph of a parabola, you can also determine the roots. The reverse is also true. That is, if it is not easy to get a visual representation of a quadratic function, you can equate the right side of the expression to 0 and solve the resulting equation. And knowing the points of intersection with the 0x axis, it is easier to plot.

From the history

With the help of equations containing a squared variable, in the old days, not only did mathematical calculations and determined the area of ​​\u200b\u200bgeometric shapes. The ancients needed such calculations for grandiose discoveries in the field of physics and astronomy, as well as for making astrological forecasts.

As modern scientists suggest, the inhabitants of Babylon were among the first to solve quadratic equations. It happened four centuries before the advent of our era. Of course, their calculations were fundamentally different from those currently accepted and turned out to be much more primitive. For example, Mesopotamian mathematicians had no idea about the existence of negative numbers. They were also unfamiliar with other subtleties of those known to any student of our time.

Perhaps even earlier than the scientists of Babylon, the sage from India, Baudhayama, took up the solution of quadratic equations. This happened about eight centuries before the advent of the era of Christ. True, the second-order equations, the methods for solving which he gave, were the simplest. In addition to him, Chinese mathematicians were also interested in similar questions in the old days. In Europe, quadratic equations began to be solved only at the beginning of the 13th century, but later they were used in their work by such great scientists as Newton, Descartes and many others.

In continuation of the topic “Solving Equations”, the material in this article will introduce you to quadratic equations.

Let's consider everything in detail: the essence and notation of a quadratic equation, set the accompanying terms, analyze the scheme for solving incomplete and complete equations, get acquainted with the formula of roots and the discriminant, establish connections between roots and coefficients, and of course we will give a visual solution of practical examples.

Quadratic equation, its types

Definition 1

Quadratic equation is the equation written as a x 2 + b x + c = 0, where x– variable, a , b and c are some numbers, while a is not zero.

Often, quadratic equations are also called equations of the second degree, since in fact a quadratic equation is an algebraic equation of the second degree.

Let's give an example to illustrate the given definition: 9 x 2 + 16 x + 2 = 0 ; 7, 5 x 2 + 3, 1 x + 0, 11 = 0, etc. are quadratic equations.

Definition 2

Numbers a , b and c are the coefficients of the quadratic equation a x 2 + b x + c = 0, while the coefficient a is called the first, or senior, or coefficient at x 2, b - the second coefficient, or coefficient at x, a c called a free member.

For example, in the quadratic equation 6 x 2 - 2 x - 11 = 0 the highest coefficient is 6 , the second coefficient is − 2 , and the free term is equal to − 11 . Let us pay attention to the fact that when the coefficients b and/or c are negative, then the shorthand form is used 6 x 2 - 2 x - 11 = 0, but not 6 x 2 + (− 2) x + (− 11) = 0.

Let us also clarify this aspect: if the coefficients a and/or b equal 1 or − 1 , then they may not take an explicit part in writing the quadratic equation, which is explained by the peculiarities of writing the indicated numerical coefficients. For example, in the quadratic equation y 2 − y + 7 = 0 the senior coefficient is 1 and the second coefficient is − 1 .

Reduced and non-reduced quadratic equations

According to the value of the first coefficient, quadratic equations are divided into reduced and non-reduced.

Definition 3

Reduced quadratic equation is a quadratic equation where the leading coefficient is 1 . For other values ​​of the leading coefficient, the quadratic equation is unreduced.

Here are some examples: quadratic equations x 2 − 4 · x + 3 = 0 , x 2 − x − 4 5 = 0 are reduced, in each of which the leading coefficient is 1 .

9 x 2 - x - 2 = 0- unreduced quadratic equation, where the first coefficient is different from 1 .

Any unreduced quadratic equation can be converted into a reduced equation by dividing both its parts by the first coefficient (equivalent transformation). The transformed equation will have the same roots as the given non-reduced equation or will also have no roots at all.

Consideration of a specific example will allow us to clearly demonstrate the transition from an unreduced quadratic equation to a reduced one.

Example 1

Given the equation 6 x 2 + 18 x − 7 = 0 . It is necessary to convert the original equation into the reduced form.

Decision

According to the above scheme, we divide both parts of the original equation by the leading coefficient 6 . Then we get: (6 x 2 + 18 x - 7) : 3 = 0: 3, and this is the same as: (6 x 2) : 3 + (18 x) : 3 − 7: 3 = 0 and further: (6: 6) x 2 + (18: 6) x − 7: 6 = 0 . From here: x 2 + 3 x - 1 1 6 = 0 . Thus, an equation equivalent to the given one is obtained.

Answer: x 2 + 3 x - 1 1 6 = 0 .

Complete and incomplete quadratic equations

Let us turn to the definition of a quadratic equation. In it, we specified that a ≠ 0. A similar condition is necessary for the equation a x 2 + b x + c = 0 was exactly square, since a = 0 it essentially transforms into linear equation b x + c = 0.

In the case where the coefficients b and c are equal to zero (which is possible, both individually and jointly), the quadratic equation is called incomplete.

Definition 4

Incomplete quadratic equation is a quadratic equation a x 2 + b x + c \u003d 0, where at least one of the coefficients b and c(or both) is zero.

Complete quadratic equation is a quadratic equation in which all numerical coefficients are not equal to zero.

Let's discuss why the types of quadratic equations are given precisely such names.

For b = 0, the quadratic equation takes the form a x 2 + 0 x + c = 0, which is the same as a x 2 + c = 0. At c = 0 the quadratic equation is written as a x 2 + b x + 0 = 0, which is equivalent a x 2 + b x = 0. At b = 0 and c = 0 the equation will take the form a x 2 = 0. The equations that we have obtained differ from the full quadratic equation in that their left-hand sides do not contain either a term with the variable x, or a free term, or both at once. Actually, this fact gave the name to this type of equations - incomplete.

For example, x 2 + 3 x + 4 = 0 and − 7 x 2 − 2 x + 1, 3 = 0 are complete quadratic equations; x 2 \u003d 0, − 5 x 2 \u003d 0; 11 x 2 + 2 = 0 , − x 2 − 6 x = 0 are incomplete quadratic equations.

Solving incomplete quadratic equations

The definition given above makes it possible to distinguish the following types of incomplete quadratic equations:

• a x 2 = 0, coefficients correspond to such an equation b = 0 and c = 0 ;
• a x 2 + c \u003d 0 for b \u003d 0;
• a x 2 + b x = 0 for c = 0 .

Consider successively the solution of each type of incomplete quadratic equation.

Solution of the equation a x 2 \u003d 0

As already mentioned above, such an equation corresponds to the coefficients b and c, equal to zero. The equation a x 2 = 0 can be converted into an equivalent equation x2 = 0, which we get by dividing both sides of the original equation by the number a, not equal to zero. The obvious fact is that the root of the equation x2 = 0 is zero because 0 2 = 0 . This equation has no other roots, which is explained by the properties of the degree: for any number p , not equal to zero, the inequality is true p2 > 0, from which it follows that when p ≠ 0 equality p2 = 0 will never be reached.

Definition 5

Thus, for the incomplete quadratic equation a x 2 = 0, there is a unique root x=0.

Example 2

For example, let's solve an incomplete quadratic equation − 3 x 2 = 0. It is equivalent to the equation x2 = 0, its only root is x=0, then the original equation has a single root - zero.

The solution is summarized as follows:

− 3 x 2 \u003d 0, x 2 \u003d 0, x \u003d 0.

Solution of the equation a x 2 + c \u003d 0

Next in line is the solution of incomplete quadratic equations, where b \u003d 0, c ≠ 0, that is, equations of the form a x 2 + c = 0. Let's transform this equation by transferring the term from one side of the equation to the other, changing the sign to the opposite and dividing both sides of the equation by a number that is not equal to zero:

• endure c to the right side, which gives the equation a x 2 = − c;
• divide both sides of the equation by a, we get as a result x = - c a .

Our transformations are equivalent, respectively, the resulting equation is also equivalent to the original one, and this fact makes it possible to draw a conclusion about the roots of the equation. From what are the values a and c depends on the value of the expression - c a: it can have a minus sign (for example, if a = 1 and c = 2, then - c a = - 2 1 = - 2) or a plus sign (for example, if a = -2 and c=6, then - c a = - 6 - 2 = 3); it is not equal to zero because c ≠ 0. Let us dwell in more detail on situations when - c a< 0 и - c a > 0 .

In the case when - c a< 0 , уравнение x 2 = - c a не будет иметь корней. Утверждая это, мы опираемся на то, что квадратом любого числа является число неотрицательное. Из сказанного следует, что при - c a < 0 ни для какого числа p equality p 2 = - c a cannot be true.

Everything is different when - c a > 0: remember the square root, and it will become obvious that the root of the equation x 2 \u003d - c a will be the number - c a, since - c a 2 \u003d - c a. It is easy to understand that the number - - c a - is also the root of the equation x 2 = - c a: indeed, - - c a 2 = - c a .

The equation will have no other roots. We can demonstrate this using the opposite method. First, let's set the notation of the roots found above as x 1 and − x 1. Let's assume that the equation x 2 = - c a also has a root x2, which is different from the roots x 1 and − x 1. We know that by substituting into the equation instead of x its roots, we transform the equation into a fair numerical equality.

For x 1 and − x 1 write: x 1 2 = - c a , and for x2- x 2 2 \u003d - c a. Based on the properties of numerical equalities, we subtract one true equality from another term by term, which will give us: x 1 2 − x 2 2 = 0. Use the properties of number operations to rewrite the last equality as (x 1 - x 2) (x 1 + x 2) = 0. It is known that the product of two numbers is zero if and only if at least one of the numbers is zero. From what has been said, it follows that x1 − x2 = 0 and/or x1 + x2 = 0, which is the same x2 = x1 and/or x 2 = − x 1. An obvious contradiction arose, because at first it was agreed that the root of the equation x2 differs from x 1 and − x 1. So, we have proved that the equation has no other roots than x = - c a and x = - - c a .

We summarize all the arguments above.

Definition 6

Incomplete quadratic equation a x 2 + c = 0 is equivalent to the equation x 2 = - c a , which:

• will not have roots at - c a< 0 ;
• will have two roots x = - c a and x = - - c a when - c a > 0 .

Let us give examples of solving equations a x 2 + c = 0.

Example 3

Given a quadratic equation 9 x 2 + 7 = 0 . It is necessary to find its solution.

Decision

We transfer the free term to the right side of the equation, then the equation will take the form 9 x 2 \u003d - 7.
We divide both sides of the resulting equation by 9 , we come to x 2 = - 7 9 . On the right side we see a number with a minus sign, which means: the given equation has no roots. Then the original incomplete quadratic equation 9 x 2 + 7 = 0 will not have roots.

Answer: the equation 9 x 2 + 7 = 0 has no roots.

Example 4

It is necessary to solve the equation − x2 + 36 = 0.

Decision

Let's move 36 to the right side: − x 2 = − 36.
Let's divide both parts into − 1 , we get x2 = 36. On the right side is a positive number, from which we can conclude that x = 36 or x = - 36 .
We extract the root and write the final result: an incomplete quadratic equation − x2 + 36 = 0 has two roots x=6 or x = -6.

Answer: x=6 or x = -6.

Solution of the equation a x 2 +b x=0

Let us analyze the third kind of incomplete quadratic equations, when c = 0. To find a solution to an incomplete quadratic equation a x 2 + b x = 0, we use the factorization method. Let us factorize the polynomial, which is on the left side of the equation, taking the common factor out of brackets x. This step will make it possible to transform the original incomplete quadratic equation into its equivalent x (a x + b) = 0. And this equation, in turn, is equivalent to the set of equations x=0 and a x + b = 0. The equation a x + b = 0 linear, and its root: x = − b a.

Definition 7

Thus, the incomplete quadratic equation a x 2 + b x = 0 will have two roots x=0 and x = − b a.

Let's consolidate the material with an example.

Example 5

It is necessary to find the solution of the equation 2 3 · x 2 - 2 2 7 · x = 0 .

Decision

Let's take out x outside the brackets and get the equation x · 2 3 · x - 2 2 7 = 0 . This equation is equivalent to the equations x=0 and 2 3 x - 2 2 7 = 0 . Now you should solve the resulting linear equation: 2 3 · x = 2 2 7 , x = 2 2 7 2 3 .

Briefly, we write the solution of the equation as follows:

2 3 x 2 - 2 2 7 x = 0 x 2 3 x - 2 2 7 = 0

x = 0 or 2 3 x - 2 2 7 = 0

x = 0 or x = 3 3 7

Answer: x = 0 , x = 3 3 7 .

Discriminant, formula of the roots of a quadratic equation

To find a solution to quadratic equations, there is a root formula:

Definition 8

x = - b ± D 2 a, where D = b 2 − 4 a c is the so-called discriminant of a quadratic equation.

Writing x \u003d - b ± D 2 a essentially means that x 1 \u003d - b + D 2 a, x 2 \u003d - b - D 2 a.

It will be useful to understand how the indicated formula was derived and how to apply it.

Derivation of the formula of the roots of a quadratic equation

Suppose we are faced with the task of solving a quadratic equation a x 2 + b x + c = 0. Let's carry out a number of equivalent transformations:

• divide both sides of the equation by the number a, different from zero, we obtain the reduced quadratic equation: x 2 + b a x + c a \u003d 0;
• select the full square on the left side of the resulting equation:
  x 2 + b a x + c a = x 2 + 2 b 2 a x + b 2 a 2 - b 2 a 2 + c a = = x + b 2 a 2 - b 2 a 2 + c a
  After this, the equation will take the form: x + b 2 a 2 - b 2 a 2 + c a \u003d 0;
• now it is possible to transfer the last two terms to the right side, changing the sign to the opposite, after which we get: x + b 2 · a 2 = b 2 · a 2 - c a ;
• finally, we transform the expression written on the right side of the last equality:
  b 2 a 2 - c a \u003d b 2 4 a 2 - c a \u003d b 2 4 a 2 - 4 a c 4 a 2 \u003d b 2 - 4 a c 4 a 2.

Thus, we have come to the equation x + b 2 a 2 = b 2 - 4 a c 4 a 2 , which is equivalent to the original equation a x 2 + b x + c = 0.

We discussed the solution of such equations in the previous paragraphs (the solution of incomplete quadratic equations). The experience already gained makes it possible to draw a conclusion regarding the roots of the equation x + b 2 a 2 = b 2 - 4 a c 4 a 2:

• for b 2 - 4 a c 4 a 2< 0 уравнение не имеет действительных решений;
• for b 2 - 4 · a · c 4 · a 2 = 0, the equation has the form x + b 2 · a 2 = 0, then x + b 2 · a = 0.

From here, the only root x = - b 2 · a is obvious;

• for b 2 - 4 a c 4 a 2 > 0, the correct one is: x + b 2 a = b 2 - 4 a c 4 a 2 or x = b 2 a - b 2 - 4 a c 4 a 2 , which is the same as x + - b 2 a = b 2 - 4 a c 4 a 2 or x = - b 2 a - b 2 - 4 a c 4 a 2 , i.e. the equation has two roots.

It is possible to conclude that the presence or absence of the roots of the equation x + b 2 a 2 = b 2 - 4 a c 4 a 2 (and hence the original equation) depends on the sign of the expression b 2 - 4 a c 4 · a 2 written on the right side. And the sign of this expression is given by the sign of the numerator, (the denominator 4 a 2 will always be positive), that is, the sign of the expression b 2 − 4 a c. This expression b 2 − 4 a c a name is given - the discriminant of a quadratic equation and the letter D is defined as its designation. Here you can write down the essence of the discriminant - by its value and sign, they conclude whether the quadratic equation will have real roots, and, if so, how many roots - one or two.

Let's return to the equation x + b 2 a 2 = b 2 - 4 a c 4 a 2 . Let's rewrite it using the discriminant notation: x + b 2 · a 2 = D 4 · a 2 .

Let's recap the conclusions:

Definition 9

• at D< 0 the equation has no real roots;
• at D=0 the equation has a single root x = - b 2 · a ;
• at D > 0 the equation has two roots: x \u003d - b 2 a + D 4 a 2 or x \u003d - b 2 a - D 4 a 2. Based on the properties of radicals, these roots can be written as: x \u003d - b 2 a + D 2 a or - b 2 a - D 2 a. And when we open the modules and reduce the fractions to a common denominator, we get: x \u003d - b + D 2 a, x \u003d - b - D 2 a.

So, the result of our reasoning was the derivation of the formula for the roots of the quadratic equation:

x = - b + D 2 a , x = - b - D 2 a , discriminant D calculated by the formula D = b 2 − 4 a c.

These formulas make it possible, when the discriminant is greater than zero, to determine both real roots. When the discriminant is zero, applying both formulas will give the same root as the only solution to the quadratic equation. In the case where the discriminant is negative, trying to use the quadratic root formula, we will be faced with the need to extract the square root of a negative number, which will take us beyond real numbers. With a negative discriminant, the quadratic equation will not have real roots, but a pair of complex conjugate roots is possible, determined by the same root formulas we obtained.

Algorithm for solving quadratic equations using root formulas

It is possible to solve a quadratic equation by immediately using the root formula, but basically this is done when it is necessary to find complex roots.

In the bulk of cases, the search is usually meant not for complex, but for real roots of a quadratic equation. Then it is optimal, before using the formulas for the roots of the quadratic equation, first to determine the discriminant and make sure that it is not negative (otherwise we will conclude that the equation has no real roots), and then proceed to calculate the value of the roots.

The reasoning above makes it possible to formulate an algorithm for solving a quadratic equation.

Definition 10

To solve a quadratic equation a x 2 + b x + c = 0, necessary:

• according to the formula D = b 2 − 4 a c find the value of the discriminant;
• at D< 0 сделать вывод об отсутствии у квадратного уравнения действительных корней;
• for D = 0 find the only root of the equation by the formula x = - b 2 · a ;
• for D > 0, determine two real roots of the quadratic equation by the formula x = - b ± D 2 · a.

Note that when the discriminant is zero, you can use the formula x = - b ± D 2 · a , it will give the same result as the formula x = - b 2 · a .

Consider examples.

Examples of solving quadratic equations

We present the solution of examples for various values ​​of the discriminant.

Example 6

It is necessary to find the roots of the equation x 2 + 2 x - 6 = 0.

Decision

We write the numerical coefficients of the quadratic equation: a \u003d 1, b \u003d 2 and c = − 6. Next, we act according to the algorithm, i.e. Let's start calculating the discriminant, for which we substitute the coefficients a , b and c into the discriminant formula: D = b 2 − 4 a c = 2 2 − 4 1 (− 6) = 4 + 24 = 28 .

So, we got D > 0, which means that the original equation will have two real roots.
To find them, we use the root formula x \u003d - b ± D 2 · a and, substituting the appropriate values, we get: x \u003d - 2 ± 28 2 · 1. We simplify the resulting expression by taking the factor out of the sign of the root, followed by reduction of the fraction:

x = - 2 ± 2 7 2

x = - 2 + 2 7 2 or x = - 2 - 2 7 2

x = - 1 + 7 or x = - 1 - 7

Answer: x = - 1 + 7 , x = - 1 - 7 .

Example 7

It is necessary to solve a quadratic equation − 4 x 2 + 28 x − 49 = 0.

Decision

Let's define the discriminant: D = 28 2 − 4 (− 4) (− 49) = 784 − 784 = 0. With this value of the discriminant, the original equation will have only one root, determined by the formula x = - b 2 · a.

x = - 28 2 (- 4) x = 3, 5

Answer: x = 3, 5.

Example 8

It is necessary to solve the equation 5 y 2 + 6 y + 2 = 0

Decision

The numerical coefficients of this equation will be: a = 5 , b = 6 and c = 2 . We use these values ​​to find the discriminant: D = b 2 − 4 · a · c = 6 2 − 4 · 5 · 2 = 36 − 40 = − 4 . The computed discriminant is negative, so the original quadratic equation has no real roots.

In the case when the task is to indicate complex roots, we apply the root formula by performing actions with complex numbers:

x \u003d - 6 ± - 4 2 5,

x \u003d - 6 + 2 i 10 or x \u003d - 6 - 2 i 10,

x = - 3 5 + 1 5 i or x = - 3 5 - 1 5 i .

Answer: there are no real roots; the complex roots are: - 3 5 + 1 5 i , - 3 5 - 1 5 i .

In the school curriculum, as a standard, there is no requirement to look for complex roots, therefore, if the discriminant is defined as negative during the solution, the answer is immediately recorded that there are no real roots.

Root formula for even second coefficients

The root formula x = - b ± D 2 a (D = b 2 − 4 a c) makes it possible to obtain another formula, more compact, allowing you to find solutions to quadratic equations with an even coefficient at x (or with a coefficient of the form 2 a n, for example, 2 3 or 14 ln 5 = 2 7 ln 5). Let us show how this formula is derived.

Suppose we are faced with the task of finding a solution to the quadratic equation a · x 2 + 2 · n · x + c = 0. We act according to the algorithm: we determine the discriminant D = (2 n) 2 − 4 a c = 4 n 2 − 4 a c = 4 (n 2 − a c) , and then use the root formula:

x \u003d - 2 n ± D 2 a, x \u003d - 2 n ± 4 n 2 - a c 2 a, x \u003d - 2 n ± 2 n 2 - a c 2 a, x = - n ± n 2 - a · c a .

Let the expression n 2 − a c be denoted as D 1 (sometimes it is denoted D "). Then the formula for the roots of the considered quadratic equation with the second coefficient 2 n will take the form:

x \u003d - n ± D 1 a, where D 1 \u003d n 2 - a c.

It is easy to see that D = 4 · D 1 , or D 1 = D 4 . In other words, D 1 is a quarter of the discriminant. Obviously, the sign of D 1 is the same as the sign of D, which means that the sign of D 1 can also serve as an indicator of the presence or absence of the roots of a quadratic equation.

Definition 11

Thus, to find a solution to a quadratic equation with a second coefficient of 2 n, it is necessary:

• find D 1 = n 2 − a c ;
• at D 1< 0 сделать вывод, что действительных корней нет;
• for D 1 = 0, determine the only root of the equation by the formula x = - n a ;
• for D 1 > 0, determine two real roots using the formula x = - n ± D 1 a.

Example 9

It is necessary to solve the quadratic equation 5 · x 2 − 6 · x − 32 = 0.

Decision

The second coefficient of the given equation can be represented as 2 · (− 3) . Then we rewrite the given quadratic equation as 5 · x 2 + 2 · (− 3) · x − 32 = 0 , where a = 5 , n = − 3 and c = − 32 .

Let's calculate the fourth part of the discriminant: D 1 = n 2 − a c = (− 3) 2 − 5 (− 32) = 9 + 160 = 169 . The resulting value is positive, which means that the equation has two real roots. We define them by the corresponding formula of the roots:

x = - n ± D 1 a , x = - - 3 ± 169 5 , x = 3 ± 13 5 ,

x = 3 + 13 5 or x = 3 - 13 5

x = 3 1 5 or x = - 2

It would be possible to perform calculations using the usual formula for the roots of a quadratic equation, but in this case the solution would be more cumbersome.

Answer: x = 3 1 5 or x = - 2 .

Simplification of the form of quadratic equations

Sometimes it is possible to optimize the form of the original equation, which will simplify the process of calculating the roots.

For example, the quadratic equation 12 x 2 - 4 x - 7 \u003d 0 is clearly more convenient for solving than 1200 x 2 - 400 x - 700 \u003d 0.

More often, the simplification of the form of a quadratic equation is performed by multiplying or dividing its both parts by a certain number. For example, above we showed a simplified representation of the equation 1200 x 2 - 400 x - 700 = 0, obtained by dividing both of its parts by 100.

Such a transformation is possible when the coefficients of the quadratic equation are not relatively prime numbers. Then, usually, both parts of the equation are divided by the greatest common divisor of the absolute values ​​of its coefficients.

As an example, we use the quadratic equation 12 x 2 − 42 x + 48 = 0. Let's define the gcd of the absolute values ​​of its coefficients: gcd (12 , 42 , 48) = gcd(gcd (12 , 42) , 48) = gcd (6 , 48) = 6 . Let's divide both parts of the original quadratic equation by 6 and get the equivalent quadratic equation 2 · x 2 − 7 · x + 8 = 0 .

By multiplying both sides of the quadratic equation, fractional coefficients are usually eliminated. In this case, multiply by the least common multiple of the denominators of its coefficients. For example, if each part of the quadratic equation 1 6 x 2 + 2 3 x - 3 \u003d 0 is multiplied with LCM (6, 3, 1) \u003d 6, then it will be written in a simpler form x 2 + 4 x - 18 = 0 .

Finally, we note that almost always get rid of the minus at the first coefficient of the quadratic equation, changing the signs of each term of the equation, which is achieved by multiplying (or dividing) both parts by − 1. For example, from the quadratic equation - 2 x 2 - 3 x + 7 \u003d 0, you can go to its simplified version 2 x 2 + 3 x - 7 \u003d 0.

Relationship between roots and coefficients

The already known formula for the roots of quadratic equations x = - b ± D 2 · a expresses the roots of the equation in terms of its numerical coefficients. Based on this formula, we have the opportunity to set other dependencies between the roots and coefficients.

The most famous and applicable are the formulas of the Vieta theorem:

x 1 + x 2 \u003d - b a and x 2 \u003d c a.

In particular, for the given quadratic equation, the sum of the roots is the second coefficient with the opposite sign, and the product of the roots is equal to the free term. For example, by the form of the quadratic equation 3 · x 2 − 7 · x + 22 \u003d 0, it is possible to immediately determine that the sum of its roots is 7 3, and the product of the roots is 22 3.

You can also find a number of other relationships between the roots and coefficients of a quadratic equation. For example, the sum of the squares of the roots of a quadratic equation can be expressed in terms of coefficients:

x 1 2 + x 2 2 = (x 1 + x 2) 2 - 2 x 1 x 2 = - b a 2 - 2 c a = b 2 a 2 - 2 c a = b 2 - 2 a c a 2.

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This topic may seem complicated at first due to the many not-so-simple formulas. Not only do the quadratic equations themselves have long entries, but the roots are also found through the discriminant. There are three new formulas in total. Not very easy to remember. This is possible only after the frequent solution of such equations. Then all the formulas will be remembered by themselves.

General view of the quadratic equation

Here their explicit notation is proposed, when the largest degree is written first, and then - in descending order. Often there are situations when the terms stand apart. Then it is better to rewrite the equation in descending order of the degree of the variable.

Let us introduce notation. They are presented in the table below.

If we accept these notations, all quadratic equations are reduced to the following notation.

Moreover, the coefficient a ≠ 0. Let this formula be denoted by number one.

When the equation is given, it is not clear how many roots will be in the answer. Because one of three options is always possible:

• the solution will have two roots;
• the answer will be one number;
• The equation has no roots at all.

And while the decision is not brought to the end, it is difficult to understand which of the options will fall out in a particular case.

Types of records of quadratic equations

Tasks may have different entries. They don't always look like general formula quadratic equation. Sometimes it will lack some terms. What was written above is the complete equation. If you remove the second or third term in it, you get something different. These records are also called quadratic equations, only incomplete.

Moreover, only the terms for which the coefficients "b" and "c" can disappear. The number "a" cannot be equal to zero under any circumstances. Because in this case the formula turns into a linear equation. The formulas for the incomplete form of the equations will be as follows:

So, there are only two types, in addition to complete ones, there are also incomplete quadratic equations. Let the first formula be number two, and the second number three.

The discriminant and the dependence of the number of roots on its value

This number must be known in order to calculate the roots of the equation. It can always be calculated, no matter what the formula of the quadratic equation is. In order to calculate the discriminant, you need to use the equality written below, which will have the number four.

After substituting the values ​​of the coefficients into this formula, you can get numbers with different signs. If the answer is yes, then the answer to the equation will be two different roots. With a negative number, the roots of the quadratic equation will be absent. If it is equal to zero, the answer will be one.

How is a complete quadratic equation solved?

In fact, consideration of this issue has already begun. Because first you need to find the discriminant. After it is clarified that there are roots of the quadratic equation, and their number is known, you need to use the formulas for the variables. If there are two roots, then you need to apply such a formula.

Since it contains the “±” sign, there will be two values. Signed expression square root is the discriminant. Therefore, the formula can be rewritten in a different way.

Formula five. From the same record it can be seen that if the discriminant is zero, then both roots will take the same values.

If the solution of quadratic equations has not yet been worked out, then it is better to write down the values ​​of all coefficients before applying the discriminant and variable formulas. Later this moment will not cause difficulties. But at the very beginning there is confusion.

How is an incomplete quadratic equation solved?

Everything is much simpler here. Even there is no need for additional formulas. And you won't need those that have already been written for the discriminant and the unknown.

First, consider the incomplete equation number two. In this equality, it is supposed to take the unknown value out of the bracket and solve the linear equation, which will remain in the brackets. The answer will have two roots. The first one is necessarily equal to zero, because there is a factor consisting of the variable itself. The second is obtained by solving a linear equation.

The incomplete equation at number three is solved by transferring the number from the left side of the equation to the right. Then you need to divide by the coefficient in front of the unknown. It remains only to extract the square root and do not forget to write it down twice with opposite signs.

The following are some actions that help you learn how to solve all kinds of equalities that turn into quadratic equations. They will help the student to avoid mistakes due to inattention. These shortcomings are the cause of poor grades when studying the extensive topic "Quadric Equations (Grade 8)". Subsequently, these actions will not need to be constantly performed. Because there will be a stable habit.

• First you need to write the equation in standard form. That is, first the term with the largest degree of the variable, and then - without the degree and the last - just a number.

• If a minus appears before the coefficient "a", then it can complicate the work for a beginner to study quadratic equations. It's better to get rid of it. For this purpose, all equality must be multiplied by "-1". This means that all terms will change sign to the opposite.

• In the same way, it is recommended to get rid of fractions. Simply multiply the equation by the appropriate factor so that the denominators cancel out.

Examples

It is required to solve the following quadratic equations:

x 2 - 7x \u003d 0;

15 - 2x - x 2 \u003d 0;

x 2 + 8 + 3x = 0;

12x + x 2 + 36 = 0;

(x+1) 2 + x + 1 = (x+1)(x+2).

The first equation: x 2 - 7x \u003d 0. It is incomplete, therefore it is solved as described for formula number two.

After bracketing, it turns out: x (x - 7) \u003d 0.

The first root takes on the value: x 1 \u003d 0. The second will be found from the linear equation: x - 7 \u003d 0. It is easy to see that x 2 \u003d 7.

Second equation: 5x2 + 30 = 0. Again incomplete. Only it is solved as described for the third formula.

After transferring 30 to the right side of the equation: 5x 2 = 30. Now you need to divide by 5. It turns out: x 2 = 6. The answers will be numbers: x 1 = √6, x 2 = - √6.

Third equation: 15 - 2x - x 2 \u003d 0. Here and below, the solution of quadratic equations will begin by rewriting them into a standard form: - x 2 - 2x + 15 \u003d 0. Now it's time to use the second useful advice and multiply everything by minus one. It turns out x 2 + 2x - 15 \u003d 0. According to the fourth formula, you need to calculate the discriminant: D \u003d 2 2 - 4 * (- 15) \u003d 4 + 60 \u003d 64. It is a positive number. From what was said above, it turns out that the equation has two roots. They need to be calculated according to the fifth formula. According to it, it turns out that x \u003d (-2 ± √64) / 2 \u003d (-2 ± 8) / 2. Then x 1 \u003d 3, x 2 \u003d - 5.

The fourth equation x 2 + 8 + 3x \u003d 0 is converted to this: x 2 + 3x + 8 \u003d 0. Its discriminant is equal to this value: -23. Since this number is negative, the answer to this task will be the following entry: "There are no roots."

The fifth equation 12x + x 2 + 36 = 0 should be rewritten as follows: x 2 + 12x + 36 = 0. After applying the formula for the discriminant, the number zero is obtained. This means that it will have one root, namely: x \u003d -12 / (2 * 1) \u003d -6.

The sixth equation (x + 1) 2 + x + 1 = (x + 1) (x + 2) requires transformations, which consist in the fact that you need to bring like terms, before opening the brackets. In place of the first one there will be such an expression: x 2 + 2x + 1. After equality, this entry will appear: x 2 + 3x + 2. After similar terms are counted, the equation will take the form: x 2 - x \u003d 0. It has become incomplete . Similar to it has already been considered a little higher. The roots of this will be the numbers 0 and 1.

We continue to study the topic solution of equations". We have already got acquainted with linear equations and now we are going to get acquainted with quadratic equations.

First, we will analyze what a quadratic equation is, how it is written in general view, and give related definitions. After that, using examples, we will analyze in detail how incomplete quadratic equations are solved. Next, we move on to solving complete equations, get the formula for the roots, get acquainted with the discriminant of a quadratic equation and consider solutions to typical examples. Finally, we trace the connections between roots and coefficients.

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What is a quadratic equation? Their types

First you need to clearly understand what a quadratic equation is. Therefore, it is logical to start talking about quadratic equations with the definition of a quadratic equation, as well as definitions related to it. After that, you can consider the main types of quadratic equations: reduced and non-reduced, as well as complete and incomplete equations.

Definition and examples of quadratic equations

Definition.

Quadratic equation is an equation of the form a x 2 +b x+c=0, where x is a variable, a , b and c are some numbers, and a is different from zero.

Let's say right away that quadratic equations are often called equations of the second degree. This is because the quadratic equation is algebraic equation second degree.

The sounded definition allows us to give examples of quadratic equations. So 2 x 2 +6 x+1=0, 0.2 x 2 +2.5 x+0.03=0, etc. are quadratic equations.

Definition.

Numbers a , b and c are called coefficients of the quadratic equation a x 2 + b x + c \u003d 0, and the coefficient a is called the first, or senior, or coefficient at x 2, b is the second coefficient, or coefficient at x, and c is a free member.

For example, let's take a quadratic equation of the form 5 x 2 −2 x−3=0, here the leading coefficient is 5, the second coefficient is −2, and the free term is −3. Note that when the coefficients b and/or c are negative, as in the example just given, the short form of the quadratic equation of the form 5 x 2 −2 x−3=0 is used, not 5 x 2 +(−2 )x+(−3)=0 .

It is worth noting that when the coefficients a and / or b are equal to 1 or −1, then they are usually not explicitly present in the notation of the quadratic equation, which is due to the peculiarities of the notation of such . For example, in the quadratic equation y 2 −y+3=0, the leading coefficient is one, and the coefficient at y is −1.

Reduced and non-reduced quadratic equations

Depending on the value of the leading coefficient, reduced and non-reduced quadratic equations are distinguished. Let us give the corresponding definitions.

Definition.

A quadratic equation in which the leading coefficient is 1 is called reduced quadratic equation. Otherwise, the quadratic equation is unreduced.

According to this definition, quadratic equations x 2 −3 x+1=0 , x 2 −x−2/3=0, etc. - reduced, in each of them the first coefficient is equal to one. And 5 x 2 −x−1=0 , etc. - unreduced quadratic equations, their leading coefficients are different from 1 .

From any non-reduced quadratic equation, by dividing both of its parts by the leading coefficient, you can go to the reduced one. This action is an equivalent transformation, that is, the reduced quadratic equation obtained in this way has the same roots as the original non-reduced quadratic equation, or, like it, has no roots.

Let's take an example of how the transition from an unreduced quadratic equation to a reduced one is performed.

Example.

From the equation 3 x 2 +12 x−7=0, go to the corresponding reduced quadratic equation.

Decision.

It is enough for us to perform the division of both parts of the original equation by the leading coefficient 3, it is non-zero, so we can perform this action. We have (3 x 2 +12 x−7):3=0:3 , which is the same as (3 x 2):3+(12 x):3−7:3=0 , and so on (3:3) x 2 +(12:3) x−7:3=0 , whence . So we got the reduced quadratic equation, which is equivalent to the original one.

Answer:

Complete and incomplete quadratic equations

There is a condition a≠0 in the definition of a quadratic equation. This condition is necessary in order for the equation a x 2 +b x+c=0 to be exactly square, since with a=0 it actually becomes a linear equation of the form b x+c=0 .

As for the coefficients b and c, they can be equal to zero, both separately and together. In these cases, the quadratic equation is called incomplete.

Definition.

The quadratic equation a x 2 +b x+c=0 is called incomplete, if at least one of the coefficients b , c is equal to zero.

In its turn

Definition.

Complete quadratic equation is an equation in which all coefficients are different from zero.

These names are not given by chance. This will become clear from the following discussion.

If the coefficient b is equal to zero, then the quadratic equation takes the form a x 2 +0 x+c=0 , and it is equivalent to the equation a x 2 +c=0 . If c=0 , that is, the quadratic equation has the form a x 2 +b x+0=0 , then it can be rewritten as a x 2 +b x=0 . And with b=0 and c=0 we get the quadratic equation a·x 2 =0. The resulting equations differ from the full quadratic equation in that their left-hand sides do not contain either a term with the variable x, or a free term, or both. Hence their name - incomplete quadratic equations.

So the equations x 2 +x+1=0 and −2 x 2 −5 x+0,2=0 are examples of complete quadratic equations, and x 2 =0, −2 x 2 =0, 5 x 2 +3=0 , −x 2 −5 x=0 are incomplete quadratic equations.

Solving incomplete quadratic equations

It follows from the information of the previous paragraph that there is three kinds of incomplete quadratic equations:

• a x 2 =0 , the coefficients b=0 and c=0 correspond to it;
• a x 2 +c=0 when b=0 ;
• and a x 2 +b x=0 when c=0 .

Let us analyze in order how the incomplete quadratic equations of each of these types are solved.

a x 2 \u003d 0

Let's start by solving incomplete quadratic equations in which the coefficients b and c are equal to zero, that is, with equations of the form a x 2 =0. The equation a·x 2 =0 is equivalent to the equation x 2 =0, which is obtained from the original by dividing its both parts by a non-zero number a. Obviously, the root of the equation x 2 \u003d 0 is zero, since 0 2 \u003d 0. This equation has no other roots, which is explained, indeed, for any non-zero number p, the inequality p 2 >0 takes place, which implies that for p≠0, the equality p 2 =0 is never achieved.

So, the incomplete quadratic equation a x 2 \u003d 0 has a single root x \u003d 0.

As an example, we give the solution of an incomplete quadratic equation −4·x 2 =0. It is equivalent to the equation x 2 \u003d 0, its only root is x \u003d 0, therefore, the original equation has a single root zero.

A short solution in this case can be issued as follows:
−4 x 2 \u003d 0,
x 2 \u003d 0,
x=0 .

a x 2 +c=0

Now consider how incomplete quadratic equations are solved, in which the coefficient b is equal to zero, and c≠0, that is, equations of the form a x 2 +c=0. We know that the transfer of a term from one side of the equation to the other with the opposite sign, as well as the division of both sides of the equation by a non-zero number, give an equivalent equation. Therefore, the following equivalent transformations of the incomplete quadratic equation a x 2 +c=0 can be carried out:

• move c to the right side, which gives the equation a x 2 =−c,
• and divide both its parts by a , we get .

The resulting equation allows us to draw conclusions about its roots. Depending on the values ​​of a and c, the value of the expression can be negative (for example, if a=1 and c=2 , then ) or positive, (for example, if a=−2 and c=6 , then ), it is not equal to zero , because by condition c≠0 . We will separately analyze the cases and .

If , then the equation has no roots. This statement follows from the fact that the square of any number is a non-negative number. It follows from this that when , then for any number p the equality cannot be true.

If , then the situation with the roots of the equation is different. In this case, if we recall about, then the root of the equation immediately becomes obvious, it is the number, since. It is easy to guess that the number is also the root of the equation , indeed, . This equation has no other roots, which can be shown, for example, by contradiction. Let's do it.

Let's denote the just voiced roots of the equation as x 1 and −x 1 . Suppose that the equation has another root x 2 different from the indicated roots x 1 and −x 1 . It is known that substitution into the equation instead of x of its roots turns the equation into a true numerical equality. For x 1 and −x 1 we have , and for x 2 we have . The properties of numerical equalities allow us to perform term-by-term subtraction of true numerical equalities, so subtracting the corresponding parts of the equalities gives x 1 2 − x 2 2 =0. The properties of operations with numbers allow us to rewrite the resulting equality as (x 1 − x 2)·(x 1 + x 2)=0 . We know that the product of two numbers is equal to zero if and only if at least one of them is equal to zero. Therefore, it follows from the obtained equality that x 1 −x 2 =0 and/or x 1 +x 2 =0 , which is the same, x 2 =x 1 and/or x 2 = −x 1 . So we have come to a contradiction, since at the beginning we said that the root of the equation x 2 is different from x 1 and −x 1 . This proves that the equation has no other roots than and .

Let's summarize the information in this paragraph. The incomplete quadratic equation a x 2 +c=0 is equivalent to the equation , which

• has no roots if ,
• has two roots and if .

Consider examples of solving incomplete quadratic equations of the form a·x 2 +c=0 .

Let's start with the quadratic equation 9 x 2 +7=0 . After transferring the free term to the right side of the equation, it will take the form 9·x 2 =−7. Dividing both sides of the resulting equation by 9 , we arrive at . Since a negative number is obtained on the right side, this equation has no roots, therefore, the original incomplete quadratic equation 9 x 2 +7=0 has no roots.

Let's solve one more incomplete quadratic equation −x 2 +9=0. We transfer the nine to the right side: -x 2 \u003d -9. Now we divide both parts by −1, we get x 2 =9. The right side contains a positive number, from which we conclude that or . After we write down the final answer: the incomplete quadratic equation −x 2 +9=0 has two roots x=3 or x=−3.

a x 2 +b x=0

It remains to deal with the solution of the last type of incomplete quadratic equations for c=0 . Incomplete quadratic equations of the form a x 2 +b x=0 allows you to solve factorization method. Obviously, we can, located on the left side of the equation, for which it is enough to take the common factor x out of brackets. This allows you to go from the original incomplete quadratic equation to equivalent to the equation of the form x (a x+b)=0 . And this equation is equivalent to the set of two equations x=0 and a x+b=0 , the last of which is linear and has a root x=−b/a .

So, the incomplete quadratic equation a x 2 +b x=0 has two roots x=0 and x=−b/a.

To consolidate the material, we will analyze the solution of a specific example.

Example.

Solve the equation.

Decision.

We take x out of brackets, this gives the equation. It is equivalent to two equations x=0 and . We solve the resulting linear equation: , and after dividing mixed number to an ordinary fraction, we find . Therefore, the roots of the original equation are x=0 and .

After getting the necessary practice, the solutions of such equations can be written briefly:

Answer:

x=0 , .

Discriminant, formula of the roots of a quadratic equation

To solve quadratic equations, there is a root formula. Let's write down the formula of the roots of the quadratic equation: , where D=b 2 −4 a c- so-called discriminant of a quadratic equation. The notation essentially means that .

It is useful to know how the root formula was obtained, and how it is applied in finding the roots of quadratic equations. Let's deal with this.

Derivation of the formula of the roots of a quadratic equation

Let us need to solve the quadratic equation a·x 2 +b·x+c=0 . Let's perform some equivalent transformations:

• We can divide both parts of this equation by a non-zero number a, as a result we get the reduced quadratic equation.
• Now select a full square on its left side: . After that, the equation will take the form .
• At this stage, it is possible to carry out the transfer of the last two terms to the right side with the opposite sign, we have .
• And let's also transform the expression on the right side: .

As a result, we arrive at the equation , which is equivalent to the original quadratic equation a·x 2 +b·x+c=0 .

We have already solved equations similar in form in the previous paragraphs when we analyzed . This allows us to draw the following conclusions regarding the roots of the equation:

• if , then the equation has no real solutions;
• if , then the equation has the form , therefore, , from which its only root is visible;
• if , then or , which is the same as or , that is, the equation has two roots.

Thus, the presence or absence of the roots of the equation, and hence the original quadratic equation, depends on the sign of the expression on the right side. In turn, the sign of this expression is determined by the sign of the numerator, since the denominator 4 a 2 is always positive, that is, the sign of the expression b 2 −4 a c . This expression b 2 −4 a c is called discriminant of a quadratic equation and marked with the letter D. From here, the essence of the discriminant is clear - by its value and sign, it is concluded whether the quadratic equation has real roots, and if so, what is their number - one or two.

We return to the equation , rewrite it using the notation of the discriminant: . And we conclude:

• if D<0 , то это уравнение не имеет действительных корней;
• if D=0, then this equation has a single root;
• finally, if D>0, then the equation has two roots or , which can be rewritten in the form or , and after expanding and reducing the fractions to a common denominator, we get .

So we derived the formulas for the roots of the quadratic equation, they look like , where the discriminant D is calculated by the formula D=b 2 −4 a c .

With their help, with a positive discriminant, you can calculate both real roots of a quadratic equation. When the discriminant is equal to zero, both formulas give the same root value corresponding to the only solution of the quadratic equation. And with a negative discriminant, when trying to use the formula for the roots of a quadratic equation, we are faced with extracting the square root from a negative number, which takes us beyond and school curriculum. With a negative discriminant, the quadratic equation has no real roots, but has a pair complex conjugate roots, which can be found using the same root formulas we obtained.

Algorithm for solving quadratic equations using root formulas

In practice, when solving a quadratic equation, you can immediately use the root formula, with which to calculate their values. But this is more about finding complex roots.

However, in school course algebra is usually not about complex, but about the real roots of a quadratic equation. In this case, it is advisable to first find the discriminant before using the formulas for the roots of the quadratic equation, make sure that it is non-negative (otherwise, we can conclude that the equation has no real roots), and after that calculate the values ​​of the roots.

The above reasoning allows us to write algorithm for solving a quadratic equation. To solve the quadratic equation a x 2 + b x + c \u003d 0, you need:

• using the discriminant formula D=b 2 −4 a c calculate its value;
• conclude that the quadratic equation has no real roots if the discriminant is negative;
• calculate the only root of the equation using the formula if D=0 ;
• find two real roots of a quadratic equation using the root formula if the discriminant is positive.

Here we only note that if the discriminant is equal to zero, the formula can also be used, it will give the same value as .

You can move on to examples of applying the algorithm for solving quadratic equations.

Examples of solving quadratic equations

Consider solutions of three quadratic equations with positive, negative, and zero discriminant. Having dealt with their solution, by analogy it will be possible to solve any other quadratic equation. Let's start.

Example.

Find the roots of the equation x 2 +2 x−6=0 .

Decision.

In this case, we have the following coefficients of the quadratic equation: a=1 , b=2 and c=−6 . According to the algorithm, you first need to calculate the discriminant, for this we substitute the indicated a, b and c into the discriminant formula, we have D=b 2 −4 a c=2 2 −4 1 (−6)=4+24=28. Since 28>0, that is, the discriminant is greater than zero, the quadratic equation has two real roots. Let's find them by the formula of roots , we get , here we can simplify the expressions obtained by doing factoring out the sign of the root followed by fraction reduction:

Answer:

Let's move on to the next typical example.

Example.

Solve the quadratic equation −4 x 2 +28 x−49=0 .

Decision.

We start by finding the discriminant: D=28 2 −4 (−4) (−49)=784−784=0. Therefore, this quadratic equation has a single root, which we find as , that is,

Answer:

x=3.5 .

It remains to consider the solution of quadratic equations with negative discriminant.

Example.

Solve the equation 5 y 2 +6 y+2=0 .

Decision.

Here are the coefficients of the quadratic equation: a=5 , b=6 and c=2 . Substituting these values ​​into the discriminant formula, we have D=b 2 −4 a c=6 2 −4 5 2=36−40=−4. The discriminant is negative, therefore, this quadratic equation has no real roots.

If you need to specify complex roots, then we use the well-known formula for the roots of the quadratic equation, and perform operations with complex numbers:

Answer:

there are no real roots, the complex roots are: .

Once again, we note that if the discriminant of the quadratic equation is negative, then the school usually immediately writes down the answer, in which they indicate that there are no real roots, and they do not find complex roots.

Root formula for even second coefficients

The formula for the roots of a quadratic equation , where D=b 2 −4 a c allows you to get a more compact formula that allows you to solve quadratic equations with an even coefficient at x (or simply with a coefficient that looks like 2 n, for example, or 14 ln5=2 7 ln5 ). Let's take her out.

Let's say we need to solve a quadratic equation of the form a x 2 +2 n x + c=0 . Let's find its roots using the formula known to us. To do this, we calculate the discriminant D=(2 n) 2 −4 a c=4 n 2 −4 a c=4 (n 2 −a c), and then we use the root formula:

Denote the expression n 2 −a c as D 1 (sometimes it is denoted D "). Then the formula for the roots of the considered quadratic equation with the second coefficient 2 n takes the form , where D 1 =n 2 −a c .

It is easy to see that D=4·D 1 , or D 1 =D/4 . In other words, D 1 is the fourth part of the discriminant. It is clear that the sign of D 1 is the same as the sign of D . That is, the sign D 1 is also an indicator of the presence or absence of the roots of the quadratic equation.

So, to solve a quadratic equation with the second coefficient 2 n, you need

• Calculate D 1 =n 2 −a·c ;
• If D 1<0 , то сделать вывод, что действительных корней нет;
• If D 1 =0, then calculate the only root of the equation using the formula;
• If D 1 >0, then find two real roots using the formula.

Consider the solution of the example using the root formula obtained in this paragraph.

Example.

Solve the quadratic equation 5 x 2 −6 x−32=0 .

Decision.

The second coefficient of this equation can be represented as 2·(−3) . That is, you can rewrite the original quadratic equation in the form 5 x 2 +2 (−3) x−32=0 , here a=5 , n=−3 and c=−32 , and calculate the fourth part of the discriminant: D 1 =n 2 −a c=(−3) 2 −5 (−32)=9+160=169. Since its value is positive, the equation has two real roots. We find them using the corresponding root formula:

Note that it was possible to use the usual formula for the roots of a quadratic equation, but in this case, more computational work would have to be done.

Answer:

Simplification of the form of quadratic equations

Sometimes, before embarking on the calculation of the roots of a quadratic equation using formulas, it does not hurt to ask the question: “Is it possible to simplify the form of this equation”? Agree that in terms of calculations it will be easier to solve the quadratic equation 11 x 2 −4 x −6=0 than 1100 x 2 −400 x−600=0 .

Usually, a simplification of the form of a quadratic equation is achieved by multiplying or dividing both sides of it by some number. For example, in the previous paragraph, we managed to achieve a simplification of the equation 1100 x 2 −400 x −600=0 by dividing both sides by 100 .

A similar transformation is carried out with quadratic equations, the coefficients of which are not . In this case, both parts of the equation are usually divided by the absolute values ​​of its coefficients. For example, let's take the quadratic equation 12 x 2 −42 x+48=0. absolute values ​​of its coefficients: gcd(12, 42, 48)= gcd(gcd(12, 42), 48)= gcd(6, 48)=6 . Dividing both parts of the original quadratic equation by 6 , we arrive at the equivalent quadratic equation 2 x 2 −7 x+8=0 .

And the multiplication of both parts of the quadratic equation is usually done to get rid of fractional coefficients. In this case, the multiplication is carried out on the denominators of its coefficients. For example, if both parts of a quadratic equation are multiplied by LCM(6, 3, 1)=6 , then it will take a simpler form x 2 +4 x−18=0 .

In conclusion of this paragraph, we note that almost always get rid of the minus at the highest coefficient of the quadratic equation by changing the signs of all terms, which corresponds to multiplying (or dividing) both parts by −1. For example, usually from the quadratic equation −2·x 2 −3·x+7=0 go to the solution 2·x 2 +3·x−7=0 .

Relationship between roots and coefficients of a quadratic equation

The formula for the roots of a quadratic equation expresses the roots of an equation in terms of its coefficients. Based on the formula of the roots, you can get other relationships between the roots and coefficients.

The most well-known and applicable formulas from the Vieta theorem of the form and . In particular, for the given quadratic equation, the sum of the roots is equal to the second coefficient with the opposite sign, and the product of the roots is the free term. For example, by the form of the quadratic equation 3 x 2 −7 x+22=0, we can immediately say that the sum of its roots is 7/3, and the product of the roots is 22/3.

Using the already written formulas, you can get a number of other relationships between the roots and coefficients of the quadratic equation. For example, you can express the sum of the squares of the roots of a quadratic equation in terms of its coefficients: .

Bibliography.

• Algebra: textbook for 8 cells. general education institutions / [Yu. N. Makarychev, N. G. Mindyuk, K. I. Neshkov, S. B. Suvorova]; ed. S. A. Telyakovsky. - 16th ed. - M. : Education, 2008. - 271 p. : ill. - ISBN 978-5-09-019243-9.
• Mordkovich A. G. Algebra. 8th grade. At 2 p.m. Part 1. Student's textbook educational institutions/ A. G. Mordkovich. - 11th ed., erased. - M.: Mnemozina, 2009. - 215 p.: ill. ISBN 978-5-346-01155-2.

We remind you that the complete quadratic equation is an equation of the form:

Solving full quadratic equations is a bit more complicated (just a little bit) than those given.

Remember, any quadratic equation can be solved using the discriminant!

Even incomplete.

The rest of the methods will help you do it faster, but if you have problems with quadratic equations, first master the solution using the discriminant.

1. Solving quadratic equations using the discriminant.

Solving quadratic equations in this way is very simple, the main thing is to remember the sequence of actions and a couple of formulas.

If, then the equation has 2 roots. Need Special attention turn to step 2.

The discriminant D tells us the number of roots of the equation.

• If, then the formula at the step will be reduced to. Thus, the equation will have only a root.
• If, then we will not be able to extract the root of the discriminant at the step. This indicates that the equation has no roots.

Let us turn to the geometric meaning of the quadratic equation.

The graph of the function is a parabola:

Let's go back to our equations and look at a few examples.

Example 9

Solve the Equation

Step 1 skip.

Step 2

Finding the discriminant:

So the equation has two roots.

Step 3

Answer:

Example 10

Solve the Equation

The equation is in standard form, so Step 1 skip.

Step 2

Finding the discriminant:

So the equation has one root.

Answer:

Example 11

Solve the Equation

The equation is in standard form, so Step 1 skip.

Step 2

Finding the discriminant:

This means that we will not be able to extract the root from the discriminant. There are no roots of the equation.

Now we know how to write down such answers correctly.

Answer: no roots

2. Solving quadratic equations using the Vieta theorem

If you remember, then there is such a type of equations that are called reduced (when the coefficient a is equal to):

Such equations are very easy to solve using Vieta's theorem:

The sum of the roots given quadratic equation is equal, and the product of the roots is equal.

You just need to choose a pair of numbers whose product is equal to the free term of the equation, and the sum is equal to the second coefficient, taken with the opposite sign.

Example 12

Solve the Equation

This equation is suitable for solution using Vieta's theorem, because .

The sum of the roots of the equation is, i.e. we get the first equation:

And the product is:

Let's create and solve the system:

• and. The sum is;
• and. The sum is;
• and. The amount is equal.

and are the solution of the system:

Answer: ; .

Example 13

Solve the Equation

Answer:

Example 14

Solve the Equation

The equation is reduced, which means:

Answer:

QUADRATIC EQUATIONS. MIDDLE LEVEL

What is a quadratic equation?

In other words, a quadratic equation is an equation of the form, where - unknown, - some numbers, moreover.

The number is called the highest or first coefficient quadratic equation, - second coefficient, a - free member.

Because if, the equation will immediately become linear, because will disappear.

In this case, and can be equal to zero. In this chair equation is called incomplete.

If all the terms are in place, that is, the equation - complete.

Methods for solving incomplete quadratic equations

To begin with, we will analyze the methods for solving incomplete quadratic equations - they are simpler.

The following types of equations can be distinguished:

I. , in this equation the coefficient and the free term are equal.

II. , in this equation the coefficient is equal.

III. , in this equation the free term is equal to.

Now consider the solution of each of these subtypes.

Obviously, this equation always has only one root:

A number squared cannot be negative, because when multiplying two negative or two positive numbers, the result will always be a positive number. So:

if, then the equation has no solutions;

if we have two roots

These formulas do not need to be memorized. The main thing to remember is that it cannot be less.

Examples of solving quadratic equations

Example 15

Answer:

Never forget about roots with a negative sign!

Example 16

The square of a number cannot be negative, which means that the equation

no roots.

To briefly write that the problem has no solutions, we use the empty set icon.

Answer:

Example 17

So, this equation has two roots: and.

Answer:

Let's take out common multiplier for brackets:

The product is equal to zero if at least one of the factors is equal to zero. This means that the equation has a solution when:

So, this quadratic equation has two roots: and.

Example:

Solve the equation.

Decision:

We factorize the left side of the equation and find the roots:

Answer:

Methods for solving complete quadratic equations

1. Discriminant

Solving quadratic equations in this way is easy, the main thing is to remember the sequence of actions and a couple of formulas. Remember, any quadratic equation can be solved using the discriminant! Even incomplete.

Did you notice the root of the discriminant in the root formula?

But the discriminant can be negative.

What to do?

We need to pay special attention to step 2. The discriminant tells us the number of roots of the equation.

• If, then the equation has a root:
• If, then the equation has the same root, but in fact, one root:

  Such roots are called double roots.

• If, then the root of the discriminant is not extracted. This indicates that the equation has no roots.

Why are there different numbers of roots?

Let us turn to the geometric meaning of the quadratic equation. The graph of the function is a parabola:

In a particular case, which is a quadratic equation, .

And this means that the roots of the quadratic equation are the points of intersection with the x-axis (axis).

The parabola may not cross the axis at all, or it may intersect it at one (when the top of the parabola lies on the axis) or two points.

In addition, the coefficient is responsible for the direction of the branches of the parabola. If, then the branches of the parabola are directed upwards, and if - then downwards.

4 examples of solving quadratic equations

Example 18

Answer:

Example 19

Answer: .

Example 20

Answer:

Example 21

This means there are no solutions.

Answer: .

2. Vieta's theorem

Using Vieta's theorem is very easy.

All you need is pick up such a pair of numbers, the product of which is equal to the free term of the equation, and the sum is equal to the second coefficient, taken with the opposite sign.

It is important to remember that Vieta's theorem can only be applied to given quadratic equations ().

Let's look at a few examples:

Example 22

Solve the equation.

Decision:

This equation is suitable for solution using Vieta's theorem, because . Other coefficients: ; .

The sum of the roots of the equation is:

And the product is:

Let's select such pairs of numbers, the product of which is equal, and check if their sum is equal:

• and. The sum is;
• and. The sum is;
• and. The amount is equal.

and are the solution of the system:

Thus, and are the roots of our equation.

Answer: ; .

Example 23

Decision:

We select such pairs of numbers that give in the product, and then check whether their sum is equal:

and: give in total.

and: give in total. To get it, you just need to change the signs of the alleged roots: and, after all, the work.

Answer:

Example 24

Decision:

The free term of the equation is negative, and hence the product of the roots is a negative number. This is possible only if one of the roots is negative and the other is positive. So the sum of the roots is differences of their modules.

We select such pairs of numbers that give in the product, and the difference of which is equal to:

and: their difference is - not suitable;

and: - not suitable;

and: - not suitable;

and: - suitable. It remains only to remember that one of the roots is negative. Since their sum must be equal, then the root, which is smaller in absolute value, must be negative: . We check:

Answer:

Example 25

Solve the equation.

Decision:

The equation is reduced, which means:

The free term is negative, and hence the product of the roots is negative. And this is possible only when one root of the equation is negative and the other is positive.

We select such pairs of numbers whose product is equal, and then determine which roots should have a negative sign:

Obviously, only roots and are suitable for the first condition:

Answer:

Example 26

Solve the equation.

Decision:

The equation is reduced, which means:

The sum of the roots is negative, which means that at least one of the roots is negative. But since their product is positive, it means both roots are minus.

We select such pairs of numbers, the product of which is equal to:

Obviously, the roots are the numbers and.

Answer:

Agree, it is very convenient - to invent roots orally, instead of counting this nasty discriminant.

Try to use Vieta's theorem as often as possible!

But the Vieta theorem is needed in order to facilitate and speed up finding the roots.

To make it profitable for you to use it, you must bring the actions to automatism. And for this, solve five more examples.

But don't cheat: you can't use the discriminant! Only Vieta's theorem!

5 examples of Vieta's theorem for self-study

Example 27

Task 1. ((x)^(2))-8x+12=0

According to Vieta's theorem:

As usual, we start the selection with the product:

Not suitable because the amount;

: the amount is what you need.

Answer: ; .

Example 28

Task 2.

And again, our favorite Vieta theorem: the sum should work out, but the product is equal.

But since it should be not, but, we change the signs of the roots: and (in total).

Answer: ; .

Example 29

Task 3.

Hmm... Where is it?

It is necessary to transfer all the terms into one part:

The sum of the roots is equal to the product.

Yes, stop! The equation is not given.

But Vieta's theorem is applicable only in the given equations.

So first you need to bring the equation.

If you can’t bring it up, drop this idea and solve it in another way (for example, through the discriminant).

Let me remind you that to bring a quadratic equation means to make the leading coefficient equal to:

Then the sum of the roots is equal, and the product.

It's easier to pick up here: after all - a prime number (sorry for the tautology).

Answer: ; .

Example 30

Task 4.

The free term is negative.

What's so special about it?

And the fact that the roots will be of different signs.

And now, during the selection, we check not the sum of the roots, but the difference between their modules: this difference is equal, but the product.

So, the roots are equal and, but one of them is with a minus.

Vieta's theorem tells us that the sum of the roots is equal to the second coefficient with the opposite sign, that is.

This means that the smaller root will have a minus: and, since.

Answer: ; .

Example 31

Task 5.

What needs to be done first?

That's right, give the equation:

Again: we select the factors of the number, and their difference should be equal to:

The roots are equal and, but one of them is minus. Which? Their sum must be equal, which means that with a minus there will be a larger root.

Answer: ; .

Summarize

1. Vieta's theorem is used only in the given quadratic equations.
2. Using the Vieta theorem, you can find the roots by selection, orally.
3. If the equation is not given or no suitable pair of factors of the free term was found, then there are no integer roots, and you need to solve it in another way (for example, through the discriminant).

3. Full square selection method

If all the terms containing the unknown are represented as terms from the formulas of abbreviated multiplication - the square of the sum or difference - then after the change of variables, the equation can be represented as an incomplete quadratic equation of the type.

For example:

Example 32

Solve the equation: .

Decision:

Answer:

Example 33

Solve the equation: .

Decision:

Answer:

In general, the transformation will look like this:

This implies: .

Doesn't it remind you of anything?

It's the discriminant! That's exactly how the discriminant formula was obtained.

QUADRATIC EQUATIONS. BRIEFLY ABOUT THE MAIN

Quadratic equation is an equation of the form, where is the unknown, are the coefficients of the quadratic equation, is the free term.

Complete quadratic equation- an equation in which the coefficients are not equal to zero.

Reduced quadratic equation- an equation in which the coefficient, that is: .

Incomplete quadratic equation- an equation in which the coefficient and or free term c are equal to zero:

• if the coefficient, the equation has the form: ,
• if a free term, the equation has the form: ,
• if and, the equation has the form: .

1. Algorithm for solving incomplete quadratic equations

1.1. An incomplete quadratic equation of the form, where, :

1) Express the unknown: ,

2) Check the sign of the expression:

• if, then the equation has no solutions,
• if, then the equation has two roots.

1.2. An incomplete quadratic equation of the form, where, :

1) Let's take the common factor out of brackets: ,

2) The product is equal to zero if at least one of the factors is equal to zero. Therefore, the equation has two roots:

1.3. An incomplete quadratic equation of the form, where:

This equation always has only one root: .

2. Algorithm for solving complete quadratic equations of the form where

2.1. Solution using the discriminant

1) We bring the equation to standard view: ,

2) Calculate the discriminant using the formula: , which indicates the number of roots of the equation:

3) Find the roots of the equation:

• if, then the equation has a root, which are found by the formula:
• if, then the equation has a root, which is found by the formula:
• if, then the equation has no roots.

2.2. Solution using Vieta's theorem

The sum of the roots of the reduced quadratic equation (an equation of the form, where) is equal, and the product of the roots is equal, i.e. , a.

2.3. Full square solution