1. Solving Quadratic Equations
Section 5.6
Solving Quadratic Equations

2. ax2 + bx + c = 0 A Quadratic Equation…
has the form:
ax2 + bx + c = 0
If necessary, we will need to rearrange into this form before we solve!

3. The zero-factor property:
If (a)(b) = 0, what can we infer about either
a or b?
Either a = 0 or b = 0
SO… if (x + 2)(x – 3) = 0, we can say
x + 2 = 0 or x – 3 = 0
Therefore, x = -2 or x = 3

4. To solve a quadratic equation:
1. Write in standard form
ax2 + bx + c = 0
2. Factor the non-zero side.
3. Set each factor equal to zero.
4. Solve each equation.
5. Check your answers in the original equation.