Chapter 4 · Question 4

State the quadratic formula and the condition for real roots.

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Q4

State the quadratic formula and the condition for real roots.

Answer Revealed
Direct Answer:
For ax2+bx+c=0ax^2+bx+c=0, a0a\ne0, the roots are x=b±b24ac2ax=\frac{-b\pm\sqrt{b^2-4ac}}{2a}. Real roots exist when b24ac0b^2-4ac\ge0.

Simple Explanation

Use x=(b±D)/(2a)x=(-b\pm\sqrt{D})/(2a), where D=b24acD=b^2-4ac. Real roots need D0D\ge0.

Exam-Ready Structure

The discriminant is D=b24acD=b^2-4ac. The roots of ax2+bx+c=0ax^2+bx+c=0 are x=b+D2ax=\frac{-b+\sqrt D}{2a} and x=bD2ax=\frac{-b-\sqrt D}{2a}. If D>0D>0, roots are real and distinct; if D=0D=0, roots are real and equal; if D<0D<0, there are no real roots.

Key Points

  • For ax2+bx+c=0ax^2+bx+c=0, a0a\ne0, the roots are x=b±b24ac2ax=\frac{-b\pm\sqrt{b^2-4ac}}{2a}.
  • Use the NCERT formula or theorem carefully.
  • Write units and final conclusion where applicable.