MTH 100 - Module 5: Quadratic Equations

These flashcards cover vocabulary and concepts related to quadratic equations, including solving methods and related terms.

Quadratic Equation

An equation of the form ax² + bx + c = 0, where a, b, and c are constants and a ≠ 0.

Zero-Factor Property

If ab = 0, then either a = 0 or b = 0.

Perfect Square Trinomial

An expression that can be factored into the square of a binomial, exemplified by (x + a)² = x² + 2ax + a².

Completing the Square

A method used to solve quadratic equations by converting the equation into a perfect square trinomial.

Quadratic Formula

The formula x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / (2a) used to find the solutions of a quadratic equation.

Square Root Property

If x² = a, then x = ±√a for a ≥ 0.

Coefficient

The numerical factor multiplying a variable in an algebraic expression, such as in ax².

Constant Term

A number on its own in an equation; it does not change and is not accompanied by a variable.

Trinomial

A polynomial with three terms, for example, x² - 5x + 6.

Variable

A symbol used to represent one or more numbers, often denoted by letters such as x or y.