Solving quadratic equations by graphing?

3. x2-4x + 6 = 0
4. x2-4x-1=0
5. 4x2-12x + 3 = 0
6. x2-2x-4=0

1 answer

You'll need a graphics calculator, and have the calculator plot those graphs.

The solutions are where the curve intersects the x-axis. You can refine the accuracy by zooming onto the intersection.

All of the above problems have two real solutions each, except for #3, which has no real zeroes (i.e. the roots are complex).

You are free to post your answers for a check if you wish. You can also check by solving them analytically using the quadratic equation.

If you do not have a graphics calculator, you can graph by paper and pencil with the same results.