Module 6: Solving Quadratic Equations

Many real life situations model a quadratic equation, such as this fountain.

x2 + 7x − 12 = 0

x2 − 9 = 4

5x2 + x − 2 = 0

The given equations share one important characteristic: the largest exponent included in the equation is 2. These equations are referred to as quadratic equations. A quadratic equation is an equation that can be written in the form ax2 + bx + c = 0, where a, b, and c are real numbers and a ≠ 0. In this module, you will learn multiple strategies to solve quadratic equations.

Getting Started

Projectiles, objects that can be thrown or launched, are a crucial component of many sports. Consider the game of football: it is impossible to play a football game without including the football. Quadratic equations can be used to model the motion of a projectile and determine the height of the object at specified times. In this non-graded interactivity, drag and drop the pieces of the puzzle to create a picture of the motion of a golf ball. Click the player button to get started.

Key Vocabulary

To view the definitions for these key vocabulary terms, visit the course glossary.