Question

How do you solve `2x^2-13x-7=0` using the quadratic formula?

Answer 1

`x=7` or `x=-1/2`

Explanation:

Let's begin with the quadratic formula: `x=(-b+- sqrt(b^2-4ac))/(2a`

In the equation `2x^2 - 13x - 7 = 0`, the a-value equals 2, the b-value equals -13, and the c-value is -7.

We substitute those numbers into our equation, and simplify to find our answer:

`x=(13+-sqrt(169-4(2)(-7)))/(2(2))` (Substitution)
`x=(13+- sqrt(225))/(4)` (Simplify)
`x=(13+-15)/4` (Simplify)
`x=(28)/4` or `x=(-2)/4` (Simplify)
`x=7` or `x=-1/2` (Simplify)