ABSTRACT
This chapter solves quadratic equations by factorisation, quadratic equations by ‘completing the square’, quadratic equations by formula, quadratic equations involving practical situations and linear and quadratic equations simultaneously. The U-shape of a parabola can describe the trajectories of water jets in a fountain and a bouncing ball, or be incorporated into structures like the parabolic reflectors that form the base of satellite dishes and car headlights. Quadratic functions can help plot the course of moving objects and assist in determining minimum and maximum values. If the quadratic expression can be factorised this provides the simplest method of solving a quadratic equation.
