Quadratic Equation

Definition

An equation of the second degree, meaning it contains at least one term in which the unknown variable is squared, but no term in which it is raised to a higher power. It is typically written in the form ax² + bx + c = 0, where a, b, and c are constants and a ≠ 0.

Examples

• x² - 5x + 6 = 0
• 2y² + 3y = 5 (can be rewritten as 2y² + 3y - 5 = 0)
• z(z + 4) = 12 (can be rewritten as z² + 4z - 12 = 0)

Synonyms & Related Terms

Second-degree equation, parabola (when graphed).

Fun Fact

The term 'quadratic' comes from the Latin word 'quadratus,' which means square. This refers to the x² term, as a square has four sides.