SOLUTION: Why do you factor a quadratic equation before you solve? Why are there usually two solutions to a quadratic equation? What do the solutions of a quadratic equation represent? G

Algebra ->  Inequalities -> SOLUTION: Why do you factor a quadratic equation before you solve? Why are there usually two solutions to a quadratic equation? What do the solutions of a quadratic equation represent? G      Log On


   



Question 312452: Why do you factor a quadratic equation before you solve?
Why are there usually two solutions to a quadratic equation?
What do the solutions of a quadratic equation represent? Give a example.

Answer by Fombitz(32388) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
If it's possible it's an easy way to find the zeros of the function, that is, the x locations where the function crosses the x-axis.
There may be 0,1, or at most 2 solutions to a quadratic equation as shown below in my three examples.
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Red-f%28x%29=%28x%2B3%29%5E2, x=-3
Green-g%28x%29=x%5E2-2, x=-sqrt%282%29 and x=sqrt%282%29
Blue-h%28x%29=x%5E2-8x%2B18, No real solutions, doesn't cross the x-axis.