Quadratic Equation Guide: Formula, Discriminant & Roots

Quadratic equation calculator — illustration

Solving ax² + bx + c = 0 by hand is error-prone. The TetraKits quadratic calculator applies the quadratic formula instantly — real roots, repeated roots, or complex conjugates.

The quadratic formula

For ax² + bx + c = 0 where a ≠ 0:

x = (−b ± √(b² − 4ac)) / 2a

Example: x² − 5x + 6 = 0 → a=1, b=−5, c=6 → roots x=2 and x=3.

The discriminant

Δ = b² − 4ac determines root type:

Δ valueRoots
Δ > 0Two distinct real roots
Δ = 0One repeated real root
Δ < 0Two complex conjugate roots

How to use

  1. Enter coefficients a, b, and c.
  2. Read the discriminant and both roots.
  3. If a = 0, the tool solves the linear equation bx + c = 0 instead.

FAQ

What if a equals zero?

Not quadratic — solves bx + c = 0 linearly.

Complex roots?

Shown as a ± bi when discriminant is negative.

Is this calculator free?

Yes. Unlimited equations.