Math Problem Statement

Solve the quadratic equation x^2 + 5x - 4 = 0.

Solution

The equation in the image is:

x2+5x4=0x^2 + 5x - 4 = 0

To solve this quadratic equation, we can use the quadratic formula:

x=b±b24ac2ax = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}

For the given equation x2+5x4=0x^2 + 5x - 4 = 0, the coefficients are:

  • a=1a = 1 (coefficient of x2x^2)
  • b=5b = 5 (coefficient of xx)
  • c=4c = -4 (constant term)

Substituting these values into the quadratic formula:

x=5±524(1)(4)2(1)x = \frac{-5 \pm \sqrt{5^2 - 4(1)(-4)}}{2(1)}

Simplifying further:

x=5±25+162x = \frac{-5 \pm \sqrt{25 + 16}}{2} x=5±412x = \frac{-5 \pm \sqrt{41}}{2}

So, the two solutions are:

x1=5+412andx2=5412x_1 = \frac{-5 + \sqrt{41}}{2} \quad \text{and} \quad x_2 = \frac{-5 - \sqrt{41}}{2}

These are the exact solutions for the quadratic equation.

Would you like more details on the process or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions that expand on this topic:

  1. What is the quadratic formula used for, and why does it work?
  2. How can you determine the nature of the roots using the discriminant?
  3. What are the possible types of roots a quadratic equation can have?
  4. How can quadratic equations be solved by factoring?
  5. What are some real-life applications of solving quadratic equations?

Tip: When solving quadratic equations, always check if the equation can be factored easily before applying the quadratic formula; factoring can be quicker and simpler in many cases.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Quadratic Equations

Formulas

Quadratic equation formula ax^2 + bx + c = 0

Theorems

Quadratic Formula

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10