quadratic equation

American  

noun

Mathematics.

1. an equation containing a single variable of degree 2. Its general form is ax 2 + bx + c = 0, where x is the variable and a, b, and c are constants (a ≠ 0).

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Etymology

Origin of quadratic equation

First recorded in 1680–90

Example Sentences

One especially influential Indian mathematician was Brahmagupta, whose algebraic techniques could handle any quadratic equation.

From Scientific American • Aug. 10, 2023

Given a quadratic equation that cannot be factored, and with first add or subtract the constant term to the right sign of the equal sign.

From Textbooks • Sep. 23, 2020

The height of a projectile shot upward from the ground is modeled by a quadratic equation.

From Textbooks • May 6, 2020

So we be sure to start with the quadratic equation in standard form, ax2 + bx + c = 0.

From Textbooks • May 6, 2020

The quadratic formula has been known for centuries; the ninth-century mathematician al-Khowarizmi knew how to solve almost every quadratic equation, though he didn’t seem to consider negative numbers as roots.

From "Zero: The Biography of a Dangerous Idea" by Charles Seife