Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Quadratic Formula
The quadratic formula is a method for solving quadratic equations of the form ax² + bx + c = 0. It is expressed as x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / (2a), where a, b, and c are coefficients from the equation. This formula provides the solutions (roots) of the equation, which can be real or complex numbers depending on the discriminant (b² - 4ac).
Recommended video:
Solving Quadratic Equations Using The Quadratic Formula
Factoring
Factoring is the process of breaking down an expression into simpler components, or factors, that when multiplied together yield the original expression. In the context of the given equation, (3x + 2)(x - 1) = 3x, factoring helps to simplify the equation before applying the quadratic formula. Understanding how to factor polynomials is essential for solving quadratic equations efficiently.
Recommended video:
Discriminant
The discriminant is a key component of the quadratic formula, represented as b² - 4ac. It determines the nature of the roots of the quadratic equation. If the discriminant is positive, there are two distinct real roots; if it is zero, there is one real root (a repeated root); and if it is negative, the roots are complex. Analyzing the discriminant helps predict the type of solutions before solving the equation.
Recommended video: