Quadratic Equation Solver

What is a Quadratic Equation Solver?

Solve quadratic algebraic equations of the form `ax² + bx + c = 0`. Calculates real or complex imaginary roots ($x_1$, $x_2$), discriminant ($Delta = b^2 - 4ac$), and vertex coordinates with step-by-step work.

Why Use This Tool?

  • Algebra Homework: Verify solutions for quadratic equations with real or complex numbers.
  • Physics Trajectory Math: Calculate projectile motion parabolic arcs and impact times.
  • Discriminant Analysis: Determine whether an equation has 2 distinct real roots, 1 repeated real root, or 2 complex imaginary roots.

How to Use

  1. Enter coefficients $a$, $b$, and $c$ (e.g. $a = 1, b = -5, c = 6$).
  2. Click Solve Equation.
  3. View Discriminant ($Delta$), Roots ($x_1, x_2$), Vertex $(h, k)$, and step-by-step formula derivations.

Real Working Example

Input:

Equation: 1x² - 5x + 6 = 0 (a=1, b=-5, c=6)

Output Result:

Discriminant (b²-4ac): 1 (Positive) | Roots: x1 = 3.0, x2 = 2.0 | Vertex: (2.5, -0.25)

Important Technical Details & Formulas

  • Quadratic Formula Standard: `x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / (2a)`.
  • Complex Imaginary Number Support: Handles negative discriminants using $i = sqrt{-1}$ (e.g. $2 pm 3i$).
  • Client-Side Engine: Fast local execution in browser memory.

Related Mathematics & Financial Tools

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the quadratic formula?

x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / (2a).

What does the discriminant (b² - 4ac) tell us?

If b² - 4ac > 0, there are 2 real roots; if = 0, 1 real root; if < 0, 2 complex imaginary roots.

Can this solver handle complex imaginary numbers?

Yes, if the discriminant is negative, it outputs complex roots in a + bi form.

Is it free?

Yes, 100% free.

Does it calculate the parabola vertex?

Yes, vertex coordinates (h = -b/2a, k = c - b²/4a) are displayed.