π CHAPTER 1 Quadratics

Quadratics Function
Quadratics function are the form f(x) = a𝑥 2 + bx +c , where a≠ 0 and represented by :

vertex
axis of symmetry

Vertex (min point)

a>0 a<0

Roots of a quadratic function:

⇒ The roots of the function are the x-coordinates of the point of

intersections of the curve with the x-axis

⇒ that means we put f(x) = 0 (find the value of x when y = 0)

⇒ To solve f(x) = 0 we use factoring or quadratic

−𝑏±√𝑏2 −4𝑎𝑐
formula x =
2𝑎

1
 π CHAPTER 1 Quadratics

Types of roots of quadratic function:

1)Two different (distinct) real roots:

f(x)
Roots x

x Roots
f(x)

2) Two equal real roots (one real roots):

f(x)
x

Root

x
f(x)
Root

3) No real roots :
x
f(x)

x f(x)

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 π CHAPTER 1 Quadratics

Roots could be found by solving quadratic equations :

1) Solving quadratic equations by factorization:
Examples:
1) Solve
(a) 6𝑥 2 + 5 = 17𝑥
(b) 9𝑥 2 − 39𝑥 − 30 = 0
Answer
(a) 6𝑥 2 + 5 = 17𝑥
6𝑥 2 − 17𝑥 + 5 = 0
(2𝑥 − 5)(3𝑥 − 1) = 0
2𝑥 − 5 = 0 𝑜𝑟 3𝑥 − 1 = 0
5 1
𝑥= 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 =
2 3

(b) 9𝑥 2 − 39𝑥 − 30 = 0
3𝑥 2 − 13𝑥 − 10 = 0
(3𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 5) = 0
3𝑥 + 2 = 0 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 − 5 = 0
2
𝑥=− 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = 5
3

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 π CHAPTER 1 Quadratics

21 2
2) Solve 2𝑥 −
𝑥+3
=1

Answer
21 2
− =1
2𝑥 𝑥+3

21(𝑥 + 3) − 4𝑥 = 2𝑥(𝑥 + 3)
2𝑥 2 − 11𝑥 − 63 = 0
(2𝑥 + 7)(𝑥 − 9) = 0
2𝑥 + 7 = 0 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 − 9 = 0
−7
𝑥= 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = 9
2

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 +26𝑥+35
3) Solve 3𝑥 𝑥 2 +8
=0

Answer
3𝑥 2 +26𝑥+35
=0
𝑥 2 +8

3𝑥 2 + 26𝑥 + 35 = 0
(3𝑥 + 5)(𝑥 + 7) = 0
3𝑥 + 5 = 0 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 + 7 = 0
−5
𝑥= 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = −7
3

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 π CHAPTER 1 Quadratics

4) A rectangle has sides of length x cm and (6x – 7) cm.

x
The area of the rectangle is 90 cm2.
Find the lengths of the sides of the rectangle.
6x – 7
Answer
𝐴𝑟𝑒𝑎 = 𝑥(6𝑥 − 7) = 6𝑥 2 − 7𝑥 = 90
6𝑥 2 − 7𝑥 − 90 = 0
(2𝑥 − 9)(3𝑥 + 10) = 0
2𝑥 − 9 = 0 𝑜𝑟 3𝑥 + 10 = 0
9 10
𝑥= 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = −
2 3
1
When 𝑥 = 4 , 6𝑥 − 7 = 20
2
1
The rectangle has sides of length 4 cm and 20 cm.
2

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 π CHAPTER 1 Quadratics

2) Solve by general formula:

We can solve quadratic equations using the quadratic formula.
If 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0, where a, b and c are constants and 𝑎 ≠ 0, then

Key point
−𝑏±√𝑏2 −4𝑎𝑐
𝑥=
2𝑎

The quadratic formula can be proved by completing the square for the equation 𝑎𝑥 2 +
𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0:
𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0 Divide both sides by a.
𝑏 𝑐
𝑥2 + 𝑥 + = 0
𝑎 𝑎 Complete the square.
𝑏 2 𝑏 2 𝑐
(𝑥 + 2𝑎) − (2𝑎) + 𝑎 = 0
Rearrange the equation.
𝑏 2 𝑏2 𝑐
(𝑥 + ) = 4𝑎2 − 𝑎
2𝑎 Write the right-hand side as a single fraction.
𝑏 2 𝑏2 −4𝑎𝑐
(𝑥 + 2𝑎) = 4𝑎2 Find the square root of both sides.
𝑏 √𝑏2 −4𝑎𝑐
𝑥+ =± 𝑏
2𝑎 2𝑎 Subtract 2𝑎 from both sides.
𝑏 √𝑏2 −4𝑎𝑐
𝑥=− ±
2𝑎 2𝑎 Write the right-hand side as a single fraction.
−𝑏±√𝑏2 −4𝑎𝑐
𝑥=
2𝑎

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 π CHAPTER 1 Quadratics

Example
Solve the equation 6𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 2 = 0
Write your answer correct to 3 significant figures.
Answer
Using 𝑎 = 6 , 𝑏 = −3 and 𝑐 = −2 in the quadratic formula gives:
−(−3)±√(−3)2 −4×6×(−2)
𝑥=
2×6

3+√57 3−√57
𝑥= or 𝑥 =
12 12

𝑥 = 0.879 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = −0.379 (To 3 significant figures)

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 π CHAPTER 1 Quadratics

3) Completing the square:

Another method we can use for solving quadratic equations is completing the square.
The method of completing the square aims to write a quadratic expression using only one
occurrence of the variable, making it an easier expression to work with.
If we expand the expressions (𝑥 + 𝑑)2 and (𝑥 − 𝑑)2 , we obtain the results:
(𝑥 + 𝑑)2 = 𝑥 2 + 2𝑑𝑥 + 𝑑 2 and (𝑥 − 𝑑)2 = 𝑥 2 − 2𝑑𝑥 + 𝑑 2

Examples
1) Express 2𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 3 in the form 𝑝(𝑥 − 𝑞)2 + 𝑟, where p, q and r are constants to
be found.
Answer
2𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 3 = 𝑝(𝑥 − 𝑞)2 + 𝑟
Expanding the brackets and simplify gives:
2𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 3 = 𝑝𝑥 2 − 2𝑝𝑞𝑥 + 𝑝𝑞 2 + 𝑟
Comparing coefficients of 𝑥 2 , coefficients of x and the constant gives
2 = p …… (1) - 12 = -2 pq …… (2) 3 = 𝑝𝑞 2 + 𝑟…… (3)
Substituting p = 2 in equation (2) gives q = 3
Substituting p = 2 and q = 3 in equation (3) therefore gives r = -15
2𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 3 = 2(𝑥 − 3)2 − 15

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 π CHAPTER 1 Quadratics

2) Express 4𝑥 2 + 20𝑥 + 5 in the form (𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏)2 + 𝑐, where a, b and c are constants to
be found.
Answer
4𝑥 2 + 20𝑥 + 5 = (𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏)2 + 𝑐
Expanding the brackets and simplifying gives:
4𝑥 2 + 20𝑥 + 5 = 𝑎2 𝑥 2 − 2𝑎𝑏𝑥 + 𝑏 2 + 𝑐
Comparing coefficients of 𝑥 2 , coefficients of x and the constant gives
4 = 𝑎2 …… (1) 20 = 2ab …… (2) 5 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐…… (3)
Equation (1) gives 𝑎 = ± 2
Substituting a = 2 into equation (2) gives b = 5
Substituting b = 5 into equation (3) gives c = -20
4𝑥 2 + 20𝑥 + 5 = (2𝑥 + 5)2 − 20

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 π CHAPTER 1 Quadratics

5 3
3) Use completing the square to solve the equation + =1
𝑥+2 𝑥−5

Leave your answers in surd form.

Answer
5 3
+ =1
𝑥+2 𝑥−5

5(𝑥 − 5) + 3(𝑥 + 2) = (𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 5)

𝑥 2 − 11𝑥 + 9 = 0
11 2 11 2
(𝑥 − 2
) −(2) +9 = 0

11 2 85
(𝑥 − 2
) = 4

11 85
𝑥− = ±√
2 4

11 √85
𝑥= ±
2 2
1
𝑥 = (11 ± √85)
2

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 π CHAPTER 1 Quadratics

Examples:
1) Put the quadratic function 𝑓(𝑥) = −2𝑥2 − 3𝑥 + 4 in the form

𝐴(𝑥 + 𝐵)2 + 𝐶; hence write down the coordinates of the vertex.

Solution
-2𝑥 2 - 3x +4 ≡ 𝐴(𝑥 + 𝐵)2 + 𝐶 ≡ A(𝑥 2 +2Bx +𝐵2 ) ≡ A𝑥 2 +2ABx+ A𝐵2 +c
A=2
−3 3
2AB = -3 ⟹2(-2) B = -3⟹ -4B = -3 ⟹ B = =
−4 4
3 −18 9 41
A𝐵2 +C = 4 ⟹-2( )2 +C =4 ⟹ +C =4⟹ C=4+ =
4 16 8 8
3 41 −3 41
∴ f(x) = -2(𝑥 + )2 + , The vertex is ( , )
4 8 4 8

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2) The quadratic 𝑥2 − 10𝑥 + 7 is denoted by f(x). Express f(x) in the form of

(𝑥 + 𝑎)2 + 𝑏. Hence, find the least possible value of f(x) and the corresponding value
of x.

Solution
𝑥2 − 10𝑥 +7≡ (𝑥 + 𝑎)2 + 𝑏≡ 𝑥 2 +2ax+𝑎2 +b
−10
2𝑎 = −10 ⇒ 𝑎 = = -5
2

𝑎2 + 𝑏 = 7 ⇒ (−5)2 + 𝑏 = 7 ⇒ 25 + 𝑏 = 7 ⇒ 𝑏 = 7 − 25 = −18
∴ 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 − 5)2 − 18 ,

the vertex is (5 , -18) The least value of f(x) is -18 and

occurs when x = 5

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 π CHAPTER 1 Quadratics

3) The equation of a curve is 𝑦 = 8𝑥 − 𝑥2.

a) Express 8𝑥 − 𝑥2in the form of 𝑎 − (𝑥 + 𝑏)2; stating the value of a and b.

b) Find the coordinates of the vertex and state whether it is maximum or minimum.

Solution
8𝑥 − 𝑥 2 ≡ a - (𝑥 + 𝑏 )2 ≡ a – (𝑥 2 +2bx +𝑏 2 ) ≡ a – 𝑥 2 -2bx -𝑏 2
8
-2b = 8 ⟹ b = = -4
−2
𝑎 − 𝑏2 = 0 ⇒ 𝑎 − (−4)2 = 0 ⇒ 𝑎 − 16 = 0 ⇒ 𝑎 = 16
a) 𝑦 = 16 − (𝑥 − 4)2
b) The vertex is (4 , 16) and it is a maximum point

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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π Quadratics

4) Solving more complex quadratic equations

You may be asked to solve an equation that is quadratic in some function of x.

Examples
1) Solve the equation 4𝑥 4 − 37𝑥 2 + 9 = 0

Answer
Method 1: substitution method
4𝑥 4 − 37𝑥 2 + 9 = 0
Let 𝑦 = 𝑥 2
4𝑦 2 − 37𝑦 + 9 = 0
(4𝑦 − 1)(𝑦 − 9) = 0
1
𝑦= 𝑜𝑟 𝑦 = 9
4
1
𝑥2 = 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 2 = 9
4
1
𝑥=± 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = ±3
2

Method 2: Factorise directly

4𝑥 4 − 37𝑥 2 + 9 = 0
(4𝑥 2 − 1)(𝑥 2 − 9) = 0
1
𝑥2 = 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 2 = 9
4
1
𝑥=± 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = ±3
2

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 π Quadratics

2) Solve the equation 𝑥 − 4√𝑥 − 12 = 0

Answer
𝑥 − 4√𝑥 − 12 = 0
Let 𝑦 = √𝑥
𝑦 2 − 4𝑦 − 12 = 0
(𝑦 − 6)(𝑦 + 2) = 0
𝑦 = 6 𝑜𝑟 𝑦 = −2

√𝑥 = 6 𝑜𝑟 √𝑥 = −2
∴ 𝑥 = 36
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3) Solve the equation 3(9𝑥 ) − 28(3𝑥 ) + 9 = 0

Answer
3(3𝑥 )2 − 28(3𝑥 ) + 9 = 0
3𝑦 2 − 28𝑦 + 9 = 0
(3𝑦 − 1)(𝑦 − 9) = 0
1
𝑦= 𝑜𝑟 𝑦 = 9
3
1
3𝑥 = 𝑜𝑟 3𝑥 = 9
3

𝑥 = −1 or 𝑥 = 2

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 π Quadratics

Examples:
1) solve 𝑥4 − 4𝑥2 + 3 = 0
Solution

Let h = 𝑥 2 SO ℎ2 = 𝑥 4
ℎ2 – 4h +3 =0
ℎ2 − 4ℎ + 3 = 0 ⇒ (ℎ − 3)(ℎ − 1) = 0 ⇒ ℎ = 3 , ℎ=1
∴ 𝑥2 = 3 , 𝑥2 = 1 ∴ 𝑥 = ±√3 , 𝑥 = ±1

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2) Solve x - 5 √𝑥 = 6
Solution
h = √𝑥 SO ℎ2 = x
ℎ2 − 5ℎ − 6 = 0 ⇒ (ℎ − 3)(ℎ − 2) = 0 ⇒ ℎ = 3 , ℎ=2

∴ √𝑥 = 3 , √𝑥 = 2 ∴𝑥=9 , 𝑥=4
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3)Solve 𝑥6 − 3𝑥3 + 2 = 0
Solution

Let h = 𝑥 3 SO ℎ2 = 𝑥 6
ℎ2 − 3ℎ + 2 = 0 ⇒ (ℎ − 2)(ℎ − 1) = 0 ⇒ ℎ = 2 , ℎ=1
3
∴ 𝑥3 = 2 , 𝑥3 = 1 ∴ 𝑥 = √2 , 𝑥 = 1

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 π Quadratics

18 1
4)Find the real roots of the equation + =4
𝑥4 𝑥2

Solution
Multiply the equation by 𝑥4 18 + 𝑥2 = 4𝑥4 ⇒ 4𝑥4 − 𝑥2 − 18 = 0
Let ℎ = 𝑥2 so ℎ2 = 𝑥4
9
4ℎ2 − ℎ − 18 = 0 ⇒(4ℎ − 9)(ℎ + 2) = 0 ⇒ℎ = , h = -2
4

∴ x2 = 49 𝑥 2 = -2 (rejected no square root for − ve numbers)

3
∴ X=±
2
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 1
5)Solve the equation (𝑥 + 4 )2 -5(𝑥 + 4 )4 + 4 = 0
Solution
1 1
2
Let ℎ = (𝑥 + 4 ) 4 SO ℎ = (𝑥 + 4 ) 2

ℎ2 – 5h + 4 = 0 ⇒ (h – 4 ) (h – 1 ) = 0 ⇒ h = 4 ,h=1
1
∴ (𝑥 + 4 )4 = 4 , x + 4 = 44 ∴ x + 4 = 256 , x =252
1
∴ (𝑥 + 4 ) 4 =1 , x + 4 = 14 ∴ x+4=1 , x = -3

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π Quadratics
2 1
6)Find the roots of the equation 𝑥 + 4𝑥 + 3 =0
3 3

Solution
1 2
Let m =𝑥 3 , 𝑚2 = 𝑥 3

𝑚2 + 4𝑚 + 3 = 0

𝑚 = −1 𝑚 = −3
1 1
𝑥 = -1
3 𝑥 3 = -3
3 3
√𝑥 = -1 √𝑥 = -3
𝑥 = (−1)3 𝑥 = (−3)3

𝑥 = −1 𝑥 = −27

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π Quadratics

5) Maximum and minimum values of a quadratic function

The general form of a quadratic function is 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, where a, b
and c are constants and 𝑎 ≠ 0
The shape of the graph of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 is called a
parabola.
The orientation of the parabola depends on the value of a, the coefficient of 𝑥 2 .

If 𝑎 > 0, the curve has a minimum If 𝑎 < 0, the curve has a maximum
point that occurs at the lowest point point that occurs at the highest
of the curve. point of the curve.
Tip
A point where the gradient is
zero is called a stationary point
or turning point.

In the case of a parabola, we also call this point the vertex of the parabola.
Every parabola has a line of symmetry that passes through the vertex.

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π Quadratics

The vertex of a quadratic function:

The vertex is ( 4 , -2)

It It is a minimum point
The minimum value of f(x) is -2
The minimum value is when x = 4

The vertex is ( 2 , 5 )
It It is a maximum point
The maximum value of f(x) is 5
The maximum value is when x = 2

How to get the coordinates of the vertex of a quadratic function:

We have two ways to find the coordinates:

−𝑏 −𝑏
1) For the function f(x) = a𝑥 2 + bx +c ; the vertex is ( , f( ))
2𝑎 2𝑎

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π Quadratics

Example:
Find the coordinates of the vertex of the function𝑓(𝑥) = −2𝑥2 − 3𝑥 + 4;
hence,
state the maximum or minimum value of f(x) and the value of x at which it
occurs.
Solution
a = -2 b = -3 c=4
−𝑏 −(−3) −3 −𝑏 −3 −3 41
x= = = , y = f( ) = -2( )2 – ( )+4=
2𝑎 2(−2) 4 2𝑎 4 4 8
−3 41
The vertex is ( , )
4 8
41 −3
The maximum value of f(x) is and the value of x at which it occurs is
8 4

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π Quadratics

Examples
1) For the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 4 :
(a) Find the axes crossing points for the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥).
(b) sketch the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) and find the coordinates of the vertex.

Answer
(a) 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 4
When 𝑥 = 0 , 𝑦 = −4
When 𝑦 = 0 , 𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 4 = 0
(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 4) = 0
𝑥 = −1 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = 4
Axes crossing points are: (0, - 4) , (-1, 0) and (4, 0).
(b) The line of symmetry cuts the x-axis midway between the axis intercepts of
– 1 and 4.
y 3
3
Hence, the line of symmetry is 𝑥 = 𝑥= 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 4
2 2

3 3 2 3
When 𝑥 = ,𝑦 = ( ) − 3( ) − 4 −1 0 4
x
2 2 2
25
𝑦=−
4

Since a > 0, the curve is U-shaped.

−4
3 −25
Minimum point = ( , )
2 4
3 −25
(2 , )
4
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Key point
If 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 is written in the form 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎(𝑥 − ℎ)2 + 𝑘, then:
𝑏
 The line of symmetry is 𝑥 = ℎ = −
2𝑎
 If a > 0, there is a minimum point at (h, k)
 If a < 0, there is a maximum point at (h, k).

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π Quadratics

6) Graph of quadratic function

How to sketch a quadratic function:
→ Find the roots of the function.
→ Find the y-intercept (value of y when x = 0).
→ Find the coordinates of the vertex of the function.
→ Sketch the function.
Example:
Sketch each of the following function:
a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥2 − 6𝑥 + 8
Solution
Roots ⇒ 𝑥2 − 6𝑥 + 8 = 0 ⇒ (𝑥 − 4)(𝑥 − 2) = 0 ⇒ 𝑥 = 2 , 𝑥 = 4
𝑦-intercept ⇒ 𝑥 = 0 ⇒ 𝑦 = 8 ⇒ (0 , 8)

−𝑏 −(−6) −𝑏
Vertex ⇒ x = = = 3 , y = f( ) = (3)2 –6 ( 3) + 8 = -1
2𝑎 2(1) 2𝑎

Vertex is ( 3 , -1 )

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π Quadratics

b) y = 7 – 10x - 𝑥 2

Solution
Roots ⇒ 7 − 10𝑥 − 𝑥2 = 0 ⇒ 𝑥2 − 10𝑥 + 7

by using the formula ⇒ 𝑥 = −10.7 , 𝑥 = 0.657

y-intercept ⇒ x = 0 ⇒ y = 7 ⇒ (0 , 7)
−𝑏 −(−10) −𝑏
Vertex ⇒ x = x = = = - 5 , y = f( ) = 7 – 10(-5) - (−5)2 = 32
2𝑎 2(−1) 2𝑎

Vertex is ( -5 , 32 )

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 π Quadratics

7) Solving quadratic inequalities

We already know how to solve linear inequalities.
The following text shows two examples.
1) Solve 2(𝑥 + 7) < −4 Expand brackets.

2𝑥 + 14 < −4 Subtract 14 from both sides.

2𝑥 < −18 Divide both sides by 2.
𝑥 < −9
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2) Solve 11 − 2𝑥 ≥ 5 Subtract 11 from both sides.

−2𝑥 ≥ −6 Divide both sides by -2.

𝑥≥3
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The previous example uses the important rule that:

Key point
If we multiple or divide both sides of an inequality by a negative number,
then the inequality sign must be reversed.

Quadratic inequalities can be solved by sketching a graph and considering when

the graph is above or below the x-axis.

24
 π Quadratics

3)Solve 𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 − 14 > 0
Answer
Sketch the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 − 14 y
𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 4
2
When 𝑦 = 0 , 𝑥 − 5𝑥 − 14 = 0
+ +
(𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 7) = 0
𝑥 = −2 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = 7 −2 x
0 7
So, the x-axis crossing points are – 2 and 7
For 𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 − 14 > 0 we need to find the range

_
of values of x for which the curve is positive (above the x-axis).
The solution is 𝑥 < −2 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 > 7
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4) Solve 2𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 ≤ 27

Answer
Rearranging: 2𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 − 27 ≤ 0
y
2
Sketch the graph of 𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 3𝑥 − 27 𝑦 = 2𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 − 27

When 𝑦 = 0 , 2𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 − 27 = 0 + +

(2𝑥 + 9)(𝑥 − 3) = 0 1 3 x
−4
0
1
2
𝑥 = −4 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = 3
2
1
So, the x-axis intercepts are −4 and 3
2

For 2𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 − 27 ≤ 0 we need to find the range of

_

values of x for which the curve is either zero or negative (below the x-axis).
1
The solution is −4 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 3
2

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Quadratic Inequalities
How to solve quadratic inequality:
→ Change the inequality to an equation.
→ Solve the equation (find the roots).
→ Sketch the curve and locate the roots.
→ State the range of values of x satisfying the inequality

Examples:
1) Solve each of the following inequality;

a) 𝑥2 − 3𝑥 + 2 ≥ 0

Solution

𝑥2 − 3𝑥 + 2 = 0 ⇒ (𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 − 1) = 0 ⇒ 𝑥 = 2 , 𝑥=1

∴𝑥≤1 and 𝑥≥2

x
1 2

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

b) 𝑥2 − 5𝑥 + 6 ≤ 0

x
2 3
Solution
𝑥2 − 5𝑥 + 6 = 0 ⇒ (𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 − 3) = 0 ⇒ 𝑥 = 2 , 𝑥=3

∴2≤𝑥≤3

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c) 𝑥2 + 12 < 13𝑥

1 12
Solution 2 3

𝑥2 − 13𝑥 + 12 < 0
𝑥2 − 13𝑥 + 12 = 0 ⇒ (𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 − 12) = 0 ⇒ 𝑥 = 1 , 𝑥 = 12

∴ 1 < 𝑥 < 12

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
d) x2 > x
0 1
Solution 2

𝑥2 − 𝑥 > 0
𝑥2 − 𝑥 = 0 ⇒ 𝑥(𝑥 − 1) = 0 ⇒ 𝑥 = 0 , 𝑥=1

∴ 𝑥 < 0 and 𝑥>1

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2) Find the range of values of k for which the equation 𝑘𝑥2 + 𝑘𝑥 + 2 = 0
has no real roots.

Solution
a=k , b=k , c=2
𝛥 = 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0 ⇒ 𝑘2 − 4(𝑘)(2) < 0 ⇒ 𝑘2 − 8𝑘 < 0 0 8

𝑘 2 − 8𝑘 = 0 ⇒ 𝑘(𝑘 − 8) = 0 ⇒ 𝑘 = 0 , 𝑘=8
∴0<𝑘<8

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3) Find the range of values of k for which the equation 𝑘𝑥2 + 3𝑥 + 𝑘 = 0

has two distinct real roots.
Solution
−3 3
2 2
a=k , b=3 , c=k
𝛥 = 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0 ⇒ 32 − 4(𝑘)(𝑘) > 0 ⇒ 9 − 4𝑘2 > 0

−3 3
9 – 4k2 = 0 ⇒ (3 – 2k)(3 + 2k) = 0 ⇒ k = k=
2 2
−3 3
∴ 2
< K < 2

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4) Find the set of values of k for which the equation 𝑥2 + 𝑘𝑥 + 2𝑘 − 3 = 0
has real roots.
Solution
𝑎=1 , 𝑏=𝑘 , 𝑐 = 2𝑘 − 3

2 6
𝛥 = 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 ≥ 0 ⇒ 𝑘2 − 4(1)(2𝑘 − 3) ≥ 0 ⇒ 𝑘2 − 8𝑘 + 12 ≥ 0
𝑘2 − 8𝑘 + 12 = 0 ⇒ (𝑘 − 2)(𝑘 − 6) = 0 ⇒ 𝑘 = 2 , 𝑘=6
∴𝑘≤2 , 𝑘≥6

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8) The number of roots of a quadratic equation

If 𝑓(𝑥) is a function, then we call the solutions to the equation 𝑓(𝑥) = 0 the
roots of 𝑓(𝑥).
Consider solving the following three quadratic equations of the form 𝑎𝑥 2 +
−𝑏±√𝑏2 −4𝑎𝑐
𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0, using the formula 𝑥 =
2𝑎

𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 8 = 0 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 9 = 0 𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 + 6 = 0
−2±√22 −4×1×(−8) −6±√62 −4×1×9 −2±√22 −4×1×6
𝑥= 𝑥= 𝑥=
2×1 2×1 2×1
−2±√36 −6±√0 −2±√−20
𝑥= 𝑥= 𝑥=
2 2 2
𝑥 = 2 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = −4 𝑥 = −3 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = −3 No real solution

Two district real roots Two equal real roots No real roots

The part of the quadratic formula underneath the square root sign is called the
discriminant.

Key point
The discriminant of 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0 is 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐.

The sign (positive, zero or negative) of the discriminant tells us how many roots
there are for a particular quadratic equation.

𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 Nature of roots

>0 Two district real roots
=0 Two equal real roots (or 1 repeated real root)
<0 No real roots
There is a connection between the roots of the quadratic equation 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 +
𝑐 = 0 and the corresponding curve 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐

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π Quadratics

Nature of roots 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 =
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 Shape of curve 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐
0
Two district real roots The curve cuts the x-axis at two district
points.

>0 a>0
or a<0
x
x

Two equal real roots (or 1 The curve touches the x-axis at one point.
repeated real root) a<0
x
=0 a>0 or

x
No real roots The curve is entirely above or entirely below
the x-axis

a<0
or x
<0 a>0

Examples
1) Find the values of k for which the equation 4𝑥 2 + 𝑘𝑥 + 1 = 0 where it has
equal roots .
Answer
For two equal roots: 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0
𝑘2 − 4 × 4 × 1 = 0
𝑘 2 = 16
𝑘 = −4 𝑜𝑟 𝑘 = 4

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2) Find the values of k for which 𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + 9 = 𝑘(5 − 𝑥) has two equal roots.

Answer
𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + 9 = 𝑘(5 − 𝑥)
𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + 9 − 5𝑘 + 𝑘𝑥 = 0
𝑥 2 + (𝑘 − 5)𝑥 + 9 − 5𝑘 = 0
For two equal roots: 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0
(𝑘 − 5)2 − 4 × 1 × (9 − 5𝑘) = 0
𝑘 2 − 10𝑘 + 25 − 36 + 20𝑘 = 0
𝑘 2 − 10𝑘 − 11 = 0
(𝑘 + 11)(𝑘 − 1) = 0
𝑘 = −11 𝑜𝑟 𝑘 = 1
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3) Find the values of k for which 𝑘𝑥 2 − 2𝑘𝑥 + 8 = 0 has two distinct roots.

Answer
𝑘𝑥 2 − 2𝑘𝑥 + 8 = 0
For two distinct roots: 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0
+ +
(−2𝑘)2 −4×𝑘×8>0 K
0 8
4𝑘 2 − 32𝑘 > 0 -
4𝑘(𝑘 − 8) > 0
Critical values are 0 and 8.
Note that the critical values are where 4𝑘(𝑘 − 8) = 0
Hence, 𝑘 < 0 𝑜𝑟 𝑘 > 8

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4) The equation 3𝑥2 + 2𝑥 + 𝑘 = 0, where k is a constant has two equal real

roots; find the value of k.

∵𝑎=3 , b =2 , c=k ∵ 𝛥 = 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0 ( two equal roots)

4 1
∴4−4×3×k =0 → 4 – 12k = 0 → 12k = 4 → k= =
12 3

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5) The equation 𝑘𝑥2 − 2𝑥 − 7 = 0 has two distinct real roots, find the possible
value of k.

∵ 𝑎 = 3 , b =2 , c=k ∵ 𝛥 = 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0 ( two distinct real roots )

−4 −1
∴ 4 − 4 × −7 × k > 0 → 4 + 28k > 0 →28k > −4 → k > , k>
28 7

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9) Intersection of a line and a quadratic curve

When considering the intersection of a straight line and a parabola, there are
three possible situations.

Situation 1 Situation 2 Situation 3

two points of intersection one points of intersection no points of intersection

The line touches the

The line cuts the curve at curve at one point. This The line does not
two district points. means that the line is a intersect the curve.
tangent to the curve.

We have already learnt that to find the points of intersection of a straight line
and a quadratic curve, we solve their equations simultaneously.
The discriminant of the resulting equation then enables us to say how many
points of intersection there are. The three possible situations are shown in the
following table.

𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 Nature of roots Line and curve

Two district real roots Two district points of intersection
>0
Two equal real roots (or 1 One point of intersection (line is a
=0 repeated real root) tangent)
No real roots No points of intersection
<0

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 π Quadratics

Examples
1) Find the value of k for which 𝑦 = 𝑥 + 𝑘 is a tangent to the curve
𝑦 = 𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 + 2
Answer
𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 + 2 = 𝑥 + 𝑘
𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + (2 − 𝑘) = 0
Since the line is a tangent to the curve, the discriminant of the quadratic must be
zero, so:
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0
42 − 4 × 1 × (2 − 𝑘) = 0
16 − 8 + 4𝑘 = 0
4𝑘 = −8
𝑘 = −2
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2) Find the set of values of k for which 𝑦 = 𝑘𝑥 − 1 intersects the curve
𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 at two distinct points.
Answer
𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 = 𝑘𝑥 − 1
𝑥 2 + (𝑘 + 2)𝑥 + 1 = 0
Since the line intersects the curve at two distinct points, we must have
discriminant >
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0
(𝑘 + 2)2 − 4 × 1 × 1 > 0 + +
K
𝑘 2 + 4𝑘 > 0 -4 0
-
𝑘(𝑘 + 4) > 0
Critical values are -4 and 0, Hence, 𝑘 < −4 𝑜𝑟 𝑘 > 0

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π Quadratics

3) Find the set of values of k for which the line 2𝑥 + 𝑦 = 𝑘 does not intersect
the curve 𝑥𝑦 = 8
Answer
Substituting 𝑦 = 𝑘 − 2𝑥 into 𝑥𝑦 = 8 gives:
𝑥(𝑘 − 2𝑥) = 8
2𝑥 2 − 𝑘𝑥 + 8 = 0
Since the line and curve do not intersect, we must have discriminant < 0
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0
(−𝑘)2 − 4 × 2 × 8 < 0 + +
K
𝑘 2 − 64 < 0 -8 8
(𝑘 + 8)(𝑘 − 8) < 0 -
Critical values are -8 and 8.
Hence, −8 < 𝑘 < 8

Examples:
1) State the relation between the line 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 1 and the curve
𝑦 = 𝑥2 + 2𝑥 − 3

Solution
From the line ⇒ 𝑦 = 1 − 𝑥
Into the curve ⇒ 1 − 𝑥 = 𝑥2 + 2𝑥 − 3 ⇒ 𝑥2 + 3𝑥 − 4 = 0
𝑎=1 , 𝑏=3 , 𝑐 = −4
𝛥 = 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 32 − 4(1)(−4) = 9 + 16 = 25 > 0
∴ The line cuts the curve at two different points.

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 π Quadratics
1
2) Prove that the line 𝑦 = 𝑥 − 1 is a tangent to the curve y = 4 𝑥 2

Solution
From the line ⇒ y = x + 1
1
Into the curve ⇒ x – 1 = 𝑥 2 ⇒ (x 4) ⇒ 4x – 4 = 𝑥 2 ⇒ 𝑥 2 - 4x + 4 =0
4

a=1 , b=-4 , c= 4
𝛥 = 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 42 − 4(1)(4) = 16 − 16 = 0
∴The line is a tangent to the curve.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3) Find the range of the value of k for which the line 𝑦 − 𝑥 = 1 cuts the curve
𝑦 = 𝑘𝑥2 at two distinct points.

Solution
From the line ⇒ 𝑦 = 𝑥 + 1
Into the curve ⇒ 𝑥 + 1 = 𝑘𝑥2 ⇒ 𝑘𝑥2 − 𝑥 − 1 = 0
𝑎=𝑘 , 𝑏 = −1 , 𝑐 = −1
𝛥 > 0 ⇒ 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0 ⇒ (-1)2 − 4(k)(-1) >0 ⇒ 1 + 4k > 0

−1
4k > -1 ⇒ k >
4

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 π Quadratics

4) Find the values of k for which the line 𝑦 = 𝑥 + 𝑘 is a tangent to the curve
𝑥2 + 𝑥𝑦 + 2 = 0.

Solution
From the line ⇒ 𝑦 = 𝑥 + k

Into the curve ⇒ 𝑥2 + x ( x + k ) + 2 = 0 ⇒ 𝑥2 +𝑥 2 + xk +2 = 0

2𝑥 2 + kx +2 = 0
a=2 , b=k ,c=2
𝛥 = 0 ⇒ 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0 ⇒ 𝑘2 − 4(2)(2) = 0 ⇒ 𝑘2 − 16 = 0 ⇒ 𝑘2 = 16
𝑘=4 , 𝑘 = −4

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5) Find the value of the constant c for which the line y = 2x + c
is tangent to the curve 𝑦 2 = 4x

Solution
From the line ⇒ y = 2x + c
Into the curve (2𝑥 + 𝑐)2 = 4x ⇒ 4𝑥 2 +4cx +𝑐 2 ⇒ 4𝑥 2 +4cx – 4x +𝑐 2 =0
4𝑥 2 +(4c – 4)x +𝑐 2 =0
a = 4 , b = 4c - 4 , c = 𝑐 2
𝛥 = 0 ⇒ 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0 ⇒ (4c – c )2 − 4(4)( 𝑐 2 ) = 0
⇒ 16c2 – 32 c +16c -16 𝑐 2 = 0

16 1
-32 c + 16 = 0 ⇒ 32 c = 16 ⇒ c= ⇒ c=
32 2

37
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Checklist of learning and understanding

Quadratic equations can be solved by:
 Factorization
 Completing the square
−𝑏±√𝑏2 −4𝑎𝑐
 Using the quadratic formula 𝑥 =
2𝑎

Maximum and minimum points and lines of symmetry:

For a quadratic function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 that is written in the form
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎(𝑥 − ℎ)2 + 𝑘:
𝑏
 The line of symmetry is 𝑥 = ℎ = −
2𝑎
 If a > 0, there is a minimum point at (h, k)
 If a < 0, there is a maximum point at (h, k).

Quadratic equation 𝒂𝒙𝟐 + 𝒃𝒙 + 𝒄 = 𝟎 and corresponding curve

𝒚 = 𝒂𝒙𝟐 + 𝒃𝒙 + 𝒄
 Discriminant = 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
 If 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0, then the equation ax 2 + bx + c = 0 has two district real
roots.
 If 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0, then the equation ax 2 + bx + c = 0 has two equal real
roots.
 If 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0, then the equation ax 2 + bx + c = 0 has no real roots.
 The condition for a quadratic equation to have real roots is 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 ≥ 0

38
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Intersection of a line and a general quadratic curve:

 If a line and a general quadratic curve intersect at one point, then the line
is a tangent to the curve at that point.
 Solving simultaneously the equations for the line and the curve gives an
equation of the form ax 2 + bx + c = 0.
 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 gives information about the intersection of the line and the
curve.

𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 Nature of roots Line and parabola

Two district real roots Two district points of intersection
>0
Two equal real roots One point of intersection (line is a
=0 tangent)
No real roots No points of intersection
<0

39
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