quadratic formula

noun

: a formula that gives the solutions of the general quadratic equation ax2 + bx + c = 0 and that is usually written in the form x = (-b ± √(b2 − 4ac))/(2a)

Examples of quadratic formula in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Remember the quadratic formula? Dave Linkletter, Popular Mechanics, 28 Jan. 2022 Most high school students know how to solve quadratic equations, such as −x−3=0, using the quadratic formula. Quanta Magazine, 30 June 2022 That’s when students turn to the quadratic formula. Jonathan Corum, New York Times, 5 Feb. 2020 What algebra students currently learn Before students are presented with the quadratic formula, they’re taught a simpler method to solve certain equations. Jonathan Corum, New York Times, 5 Feb. 2020 The upshot is that the quadratic formula ensures that, in our town, the collective well-being of the public is maximized through the voting system. Eric Posner and Glen Weyl, Vox, 29 June 2018 When a referendum is held, people exchange their voice credits for votes, according to a quadratic formula: one vote costs one credit; two votes cost four credits; three votes cost nine credits; and so on. Eric Posner and Glen Weyl, Vox, 29 June 2018

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'quadratic formula.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1804, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of quadratic formula was in 1804

Dictionary Entries Near quadratic formula

Cite this Entry

“Quadratic formula.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/quadratic%20formula. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

quadratic formula

noun
: a formula that gives the solutions of the general quadratic equation ax2 + bx + c = 0 and that is usually written in the form x equals 1/2a times (-b ± the square root of b2 - 4ac)
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