Solving Quadraticc

Equations by
1.1 Completing the Square e
Recap
In Book 2, we have learnt that a quadratic equation is of the form

ax + bx + c = 0, where a, b and c are real numbers and a #0.

Worked (Solving a Quadratic Equation by Factorisation)

Example 1 Solve the equation x2- 5x- 6 = 0.

Solution:
r - 5x - 6 =0

-6)(r + 1) =0 (factorise by using the RECALL

X-6 =0 or
multiplication frame)
x+l =0
X=6 If two factors P and
X = -1 Q are such
= 6 or x = -1
that Px Q=0, then either P =0 or
Q = 0 or both P and Q are equal
to 0.

PRACTISE NOW 1
SIMILAR
Solve each of the QUESTIONS
following equations.
(a) +7x - 8 =0 Exercise 1A Questions 11a)-t)
(b) 6y +7y -

20 = 0

Solving Quadratic Equations of

(r+a =b the Form
In Worked Example 1, we solved the
solutions of some equation by factorisation.
example this type of
of
quadratic equations cannot be However, the
Can be written quadratic equation is obtained by factorisation. An
in the form (x
a b, where a and b
+ 6x - +
5 =0. If this
can be solved
easily by taking the
=

are real
equation
obtain the solutions. square roots on
numbers,
both sides
it then
of the
equation to
O03 Chapter 1 Quadratic Equations and Functions
Worked2 (Solving a Quadralic Equation ol the Form (+ (a) = b)
Solve the
Example equation (r +3} l4. =

Solution:
(r+3) = 14

tv14 (take the square roots both

on sides)
+ 3 = vW14 r +3= -V14
= 14-3 x= -V14 -3
0.742 (to 3 s.f.) -6.74 (to 3
=
s.f.)
= 0.742 or r = -6.74

PRACTISE NOW 2
SIMILAR
QUESTIONS

Solve each of the following equations. Exercise 1A Questions 2(a)-(h)

(a) (r+7= 100 (b) y-5) =11

Completing the Square for a Quadratic

Expression
To express a quadratic equation of the formx + px +q=0 in the form (x + a= b,
we first need to learn how to complete the square for a quadratic expression
x+px.
Let us consider the expansion of (r + 3)
As shown in Book 2, we can use algebra discs to represent the expansion
(+3 = +6x +9 in the form of a square array (equal rows and columns of
discs) as shown in Fig. 1.1(a) or a multiplication frame as shown in Fig. 1.1(b).

We observe that in the square array,

thedisc is in the top left-hand corner,
the nine O discs are arranged as a 3 by 3 square atthe bottom right-hand
corner,
the sixdiscs are divided equally into 2 parts, i.e. 6r is divided into 2 parts
of 3x.

x OOO 3
3x

o00 0O 3x
o000O
(a) (b)
Fig 1.1

Quadratic Equations and Functions Chapter1 004

 Quadratic expressions of the form (t+a} can be arranged into a multiplication
frame similar to the example in Fig. 1.1.

However, not all quadratic expressions can be expressed in the form (x +a

For example, the expression +6r can only be arranged as shown in Fig. 1.2.

X 3x

3x

Fig. 1.2

Comparing Fig. 1.1 and Fig. 1.2, what number must be added to complete the
square? We observe that 9 must be added to 2 + 6x to make it into (x + 3).

However, x2 +6x # (x+3).

X 3
3
X 3x 3x

3x 3 3x 9

ATTENTION
Since we add 9 to x+ 6x, we must subtract 9 as follows: Essentially, we add 9 -9 =0 to
+6x so that the equality will
still hold.
x+6x =x*+6x + 9-9
= (x + 3) -9

Pictorially, it looks like

X 3

X 3x

3 3x 9

O05 Chapter 1 Quadratic Equations and Functions

 Investigation
Completing the Square for Quadratic Expressions ofthe Form +pr

To make a quadratic expression of the form x? + px into a perfect square (r + a, we

have to adda number, b, to + px. In this investigation, we wil find a relationship
between b and p.

Copy and complete Table 1.1. The second one has been done for you.

Number that
Quadratic must be added Quadratic expression
Expression to complete the | x coefficient of r, of the form
(r+a-b
+px Square,
b

+4x

(a)

+6x
x+6x
=r+ 6x +32-32
3 = (r+3)-9

3x 3
(b) 33 9 3
3 3x 3x

-9

x+ 8x

(C)

10x

(d)

Table 1.1

1. What is the relationship between b and p?

a) -b, write down an expression of a and ofb
2. To express r+ p x in the form (r +

in terms of p.

Quadratic Equations and Functions Chapter 1 006

 the form (r+a) Can be arranged into a multiplication
Quadratic expressions of
in Fig. 1.1.
frame similar to the example

in the form (x + a)?.

However, not all quadratic expressions can be expressed
+6x can only be arranged as
shown in Fig. 1.2.
For example, the expression x

3
3x

Fig. 1.2

be added complete the

Comparing Fig. 1.1 and Fig. 1.2, what number
must to
make it into (x +3)2.
square? We observe that 9 must be added to *+6x to
However, r+6r * (x + 3).

3
X
3
3x 3x

3 3x 3 3 9

ATTENTION
Essentially, we add 9 - 9 0 to
Since we add 9 tor +6x, we must subtract 9 as follows:
+ 6r so that the equality will
still hold.
+6x =x+6x + 9-9
= (x+3)2-9

Pictorially, it looks like

x 3

3x

3x 9

005 Chapter 1 Quadratic Equations and Functions

 Investigation
Completing the Square for Quadratic Expressions of the Form r + px

To make a quadratic expression of the formx+ px into a perfect square (r+ a?, we
have to add a number, b, to xr + px. In this investigation, we will find a relationship
between b and p.

Copy and complete Table 1.1. The second one has been done for you.

Number that
Quadratic must be added Quadratic expression
x coefficient of x,
Expression to complete the of the form
+px square, (r+a-b

2 4x

(a)

6x +6x
*+6x +32-32
x 3 = (*+3)-9

3x
X 3
(b) 32 9
3 3x
3x

3 3x

r+8x

(c)

r+10x

(d)

Table 1.1
1. What is the relationship between b and p?
2. To express r2+ px in the form (x+ a) -b, write down an expression of a and of b
in terms of p.

Quadratic Equations and Functions Chapter1006

 From the investigation, on completing the square,

if+pr= (r +a- b, then a = and b=(

i.e. +px

For a quadratic expression of the torm r' + px+9, we can express it as follows:

+ p r + q = (r+px) +q

-
Completing the Square lor (Quacratic Expressions)
Worked
Example3 Express each of following expressions
the in the form
(r+a +b.
(a) +10r (b)-5x
(c)+2x+3

Solution:
(a) The coefficient of x is 10. Half of this is 5.

+10x = lr+ 10x +5]-5

= (r+5)-25

(b) The coefficient of x is -5. Half of this is .

.f-Sx=-Sx-

(c) +2x +3 =(x + 2x) +3

The coefficient of x is 2. Half of this is 1.

+2x+3 =
[ +2x +01-1?+3
=( +1 +2

PRACTISE NOW 3
SIMILAR
QUESTIONS
Express each of the
following expressions in the form 3la-1i

(a) +20x (r+a? + b. Exercise 1A Questions

(b)-7x
(c) x*+x
(d) +6x-9

Worked Example 4, we
In will show how to solve
completing the square.
a
quadratic equation by

007 Chapter 1 Quadratic Equations and Functions

Worked (Solving a Quadralic Equation by Completing the Square)

Example 4 Solve the

correct
equation x + 4r
to 2 decimal
places.
-

3 =
0, giving your answers

Solution:
As + 4x-3 cannot be
easily factorised, we need to transform the equation
+ 4 - 3 =0 into the form (r+a? = b as follows:

r+ 4x-3 =0 ATTENTION
+ 4r = 3 (rewrite the equation such that the constant term is Alternatively, we can complete
on the RHS of the
equation) the square by:
x +4x-3 =0

x 3(add to both sides of the equation to complete

the square for the LHS)
--
+ 4x +22 = 3 +22 - 3 =0

(r+2 =7 (factorise the expression on the LHS and simplify (x+2) =7

the RHS)

x+2= t 7 (take the square roots on both sides)

x+2 7 or x+2 = -V7
X= 7 - 2 x = -V7 -2

= 0.65 (to 2 d.p.) =-4.65 (to 2 d.p.)

X= 0.65 or x = -4.65

In general, the steps taken to solve a quadratic equation +px +q =0, wherep and
are as follows:
g are real numbers, by completing the square

+px + q =0

x+px= -9 (add -q to both sides of the equation)

(addtobboth sides of the equation)

(factorise the expression on the LHS and
simplify the RHS)

(take the square roots on both sides)

(add to both sides ofthe equation)

Quadratic Equations and Functions Chapter 1 008

 PRACTISE NOW 4 SIMILAR
QUESTIONS
correct to
1. Solve each of the following equations, giving your answers
Exercise 1A Questions
5(a)-(d), 6 4a)-h).
2 decimal places.
-4 0
(a) +6x = (b) +7x +5 =0
(c)-x - 1 =0
4)(x 3) = 15.
equation (x +
-

2. Solve the

Exercise
1A

BASIC LEVEL INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

1. Solve each of the following equations. 3. Express each of the following expressions in the
(a) 2x+5x-7 0 (b) 4x 5x -6 =0 form (x+ a)? +b.

(c) 7x+?- 18 =0 (d) 4-3x-xr = 0 (a) x+12x (b) x2- 6x + 1

(e) x(3x-1) =2 (7-3x)* +2) = 4 (c) +3x -2 (d) x+9x -1

(e)+ (-
2. Solve each of the following equations, giving your (g +0.2x (h) -1.4x
answers correct to 2 decimal places where necessary.

(a) (x+ 1 =9 (b) (2x+ 1)= 16

4. Solve each of the following equations, giving your
(c) (5x-4) = 81 9
(d) (7-3x} =6 answers correct to 2 decimal places.
(e) (x+3) = 11 (f) (2x-3P = 23 (a) + 2 r -5 = 0 (b) x2+ 17x-30 =0

(g) (5-x)* = 7 (c) x- 12x+9 =0 (d)r-5x -5 =0

10
(e)xx -3 =0 (0 - G + 0
(g +0.6x - 1 = 00 (h) x2-4.8x +
2 =0

5. Solve each of the following equations.

7x
(a) xr-3) = 5x +1 (b) (r+1)} =
x(x4)
= 2(r + 7)
(c) * + 2 x - 5) = 4x (d)

ADVANCED LEVEL is
6 =0, where
6. Given the equation y2 ay -
-

terms
of
for y in
aconstant, find the expressions

009 Chapter 1 Quadratic Equations and Functions

 Solving Quadratic
Equations by
.2using Formula
The general form of a quadratic equation is ax? + bx + c = 0, where a, b and c
are real numbers and a 0 . Now, we shall use the method of
completing
the square to derive a formula for the solution to all
quadratic equations.

ax + bx +c =0

rx=0 (divide throughout by a)

(rewrite the equation such that the constant term is

on the RHS of the
equation)
(add to both sides ofthe equation to make
the LHS a perfect square)

(factorise the expression on the LHS and simplify

4a the RHS)
b - 4ac

4a

(take the square roots on both sides)

x+2a 4a

-4ac
2a

4ac
2a

=
-bb-4ad
2a

-b+b -4ac
- orx=
r = =b-b-4de
2a 2a

In general,

if ax+bx + c =0, where a, b and c are real numbers and a # 0, then

-btb-4ac
2a

The above formula for solving quadratic equations is usually used when the quadratic
expression cannot be factorised easily.

Quadratic Equations and Functions Chapter 1 010

Worked5 Solving a Quadratic tquation by using Formula
Solve the equation 3x+ 4x - 5 = 0.
Example
Solution:
Comparing 3r+ 4x - 5 =0 with ax + bx +c=0, we have a = 3, b = 4 and c = -5.
ATTETTENTION
-ht 4ac
2a Always ensure that the
in the form ar + equation
44-4(3M-5) c
substituting
into the
bx
the values+c=0beiore
of
2(3) tormula. a, band

4t 16(-60)
6

416+60
6

= 4+76
6
= 0.786 (to 3 s.f.) or -2.12 (to 3 s.f.)

. x= 0.786 or x = -2.12

PRACTISE NOW 5
SIMILAR
QUESTIONS
Solve each of the
following equations. Exercise 1B Questions 1ia-t
(a) 2+3x-7 0 2(a)-0, 3(a)-)

(C) x - 1) = 4x -5
(b) 5x-8x - 1 =0
(d) r+ 3)(x - 1) = 8x - 7

RAA9a Class
9 Discussion
Solutions to Quadratic Equations
Work in pairs.
Consider each of the following equations.
(a) 4x- 12x +9 = 0 (b) 2+ 5x +8 =0 (c) 3+ 5x 4 0
ATTENTION =0h
1. Find the value of b'- 4ac. +9
The equation
-ár
solutionr=3,
ie. 3
t s
saat
ii sitn
iees

2. Use the quadratic

s

formula to solve the real that

equation. Are there

any real solutions
y
the only
real
number

Explain your answer the equation. 9=0

has
no re
r+ real numbe
3. What you say about
can the sign ot he
equation

there is
no

b -

4ac and the number of

real solutions of SOlutions
as
equation
a quadratic equation? that
satisfies
the

011 Chapter 1 Quadratic Equations and Functions

From the class discussion, we observe that

SIMILAR
For a
quadratic equation ax + bx +c= 0, QUESTIONS
.if b-4ac> 0, the equation has two real solutions, Exercise 1B Questions 4la)-(d)
.if b- 4ac 0, the equation
=
has one real solution,
.if b-4ac < 0, the equation has no real solutions.

Exercise
1B

BASIC LEVEL INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

1. Solve each of the following equations. 3. Solve each of the following equations.
(b) 3(x+ 1)(r- 1) = 7x
(a)+4x+ 1 =0 (b) 3x +6x - I =0 (a) xtr+ 1) =1|
(d) x ( r - 5) = 7 - 2x
(c) 2-7x +2 =0 (d) 3x 5 x - 17 = 0 (c) (x- 1)}-2x=0
(e)-3x-7x +9 = 0 (-5x+ 10x -2 0 (e) (2x+ 3(r- 1)-x(r + 2) = 0

( (4x-3) (4x +3
+ =25

2. Solve each of the following equations.

(a) +5x = 21 (b) 10x- 12r =15 4. Solve each of the following equations if possible.

(c) 8x= 3r +6 (d) 4 - 7 = 2x

(a) 0.5(+ 1) =x (b) +2x-; =0
(e) 9-5x = -3x ( 16x-61 =x? (d) 3x-4 = (4x - 3)
(c) 5x 7 =

Solving Quadratic
Equations by
1.3 Graphical Method
In Sections 1.1 and 1.2, we have learnt how to solve quadratic equations by

Completing the square and by using the quadratic formula. Another

method that RECALL
Can be used to find the solutions of the quadratic equation ar? + bx +c =0 is by
When solving a pair of simultaneouS
drawing the corresponding quadratic graph of y =ar+br+cand to find the r-coordinates
equations
of the points of intersection of this graph with the r-axis (y = 0). y=a r + b r +C --- (1)

and y=0,-(2)
we obtain the quadratic equation
ar + br +c=0.

Quadratic Equations and Functions Chapter 1 012

Worked (Solving a Quadratic Equalion by Graphical Method)

Example6
The variables x and y are connected by the equation

y 21-5x -6.
) Complete the table for y =
2r -

5x -6.

-2-10 2 34
(i) Draw the graph of y 2r-5x - 6 for -2 <xs4.
=

(i) Hence, solve the equation 2r?- 5x-6 =0.

Solution:
-2-1o1234
y12 1-6-9-8-3 6

(ii)

10

2x5x -6

RECALL
The solution of a pair of
simultaneous linear equations is
given by the coordinates of the
point of intersection of the graphs
of the two equations.

ATTENTION
For 2 - 5x - 6 = 0, the value of
b-4ac is 73>0. Hence, there are
H0- two real solutions.

(ii) From the graph, the x-coordinates of the points of intersection of y = 2x2- 5x- 6
ATTENTION
The obtained by the
and the r-axis (i.e. y = 0) are x = -09 and x = 3.4. answers
be
method can only
graphical
accurate up to half of a smal

The solutions of the 2x grid. In Worked Example

equation -

5x -

6 = 0 are x =
-0.9 and r = 3.4.
Square
the solutions are accurate
to

6,
the nearest 0.1.

013 Chapter 1 Quadratic Equations and Functions

 PRACTISE NOW 6 SIMILAR
QUESTIONS

1. The variables
and y are connected by the
x Exercise 1C Questions 1, 2, 4, 5,
equation y = 2x?- 4x- 1.
)Complete the table for y = 2r- 4x-1. 8, 9

-2-1 0 2 34
(i) Draw the graph of y 2r-4x - 1 for -2 xs4
=

(ii) Hence, solve the equation 21-4x 1 =0.

2. By drawing the graph ofy 7 -4x - 3r for -3 x < 2, solve
=
the equation
7-41-3a =0 graphically.

Worked7 (Solving a Quadratic Equation by Graphical Method

The variables x and y are connected by the equation
Example y=r-4x+4
) Complete the table for y =r?-4x +4
-1 0 12 3 45
(i) Draw the graph ofy = *-4x + 4 for -1 sr<5.
(ii) Hence, solve the equation -4x+4 =0.

Solution:
2 234 5
94 0 14 9
i)

y=-4+4 ATTENTION
Equations such as x - 4r + 4 = 0
are usually solved by factorisation
as they can be easily factorised.

ii) From the graph, the curve y =

x= 2 only.
- 4x + 4 touches the x-axis (i.e. y = 0) at
ATTENTION
For 4x + 4 = 0, the value of
b - 4ac is 0. Hence, there is only
. The solution of the equation x-4x + 4 = 0 is x = 2. one real solution.

Quadratic Equations and Functions Chapter 1 014

 SIMILARR
PRACTISE NOVW 7 QUESTIONS
=x- 6r+9.
the equation
y Exercise 1C O
The
variables r
and y
are
Connected

=r- 6r
by
+ 9. Questions ,61
the table fory
1.
Complete 4
(i) 0 2

<r s6.
6r +9 tor - I
the graph of y
=r-- 0.
(ii) Draw
- 6r + 9 =

solve the
equation
r s lve the equation
8, solv
(ii) Hence, 8r-*- 16 for 0
the graph of y =

2. By drawing
0 graphically.
8r-- 16 =

/Thinking
Time
<rs4.
for -2
Draw the graph of y =2r+4r
+3
between the graph and the x-axis.
intersection
State the number
of points of 2r2+ 4r + 3 =
0?
) are there to the equation
real solutions
(ii) How many
Explain your answer.
2x2+4x+3 0. =

4ac for the equation

(ii) Find the value b- of relate to the number of
4ac o b t a i n e d in (i)
the value of b
-

(iv) How does

r-axis?
the graph with the
pointsof intersection of

Journal
Writing
methods:
To solve a quadratic equation, you have learnt the following 4

) Factorisation
(ii) Completing the square
(ii) Use of the quadratic formula
(iv) Graphical method

Write down the advantages and disadvantages of using each method. When solving
a quadratic equation, how would you choose which method to use?

015 Chapter 1 Quadratic Equations and Functions

 Exercise
1C

BASIC LEVEL
INTERMEDIATE LEVEL
1. The variables and y are connected
x
by 4. (i) Draw the graph of y = 3r2 + 4x 5 tor
the equation y = 2r -5x + 1.
-3x 2.
) Complete the table for y = 21 - 5x+ 1. (i) Hence, solve the equation 3x+ 4r - 5 = 0

graphically.
2 3 4

5. By drawing the graph of y = 5 - 2x - x for

ii) Draw the graph of y = 21-5x+ 1
4 r 2 , solve the equation 5 - 2x - * =0
for-1 x s 4
graphically.
(iii) Hence, solve the equation 2x 5x +1 = 0.

6. i) Draw the graph of y = 4x + 12r +9 for

2. The variables x and y connected by
are
4 x2.
the equation y =
7-5x -3r i) Hence, solve the equation 4r + 12x +9 = 0
) Complete the table for y = 7-5x 3.
graphically.
-2-10 2 7. By drawing the graph of y = 10x - 25 r for

(i) Draw the graph of y = 7 -5x- 3x* 0 10, solve the equation 10r - 25 x* =0

for-3r 2. graphically.
ii) Hence, solve the equation 7-5x - 3 =0.

ADVANCED LEVEL
3. The variables x and y are connected by
the equation y = x* +6x +9. 8. The profit, $P million, of a manufacturing company
in its first 10 years of operation can be modelled
) Complete the table for y =x +6x +9.
by the equation P = 2-0.1(r - 3 , wherer is the
-5 4 -3 -2-1 0
number of years of operation.
y (a) Using a scale of 1 cm to represent I year,
(ii) Draw the graph ofy =* +6x +9 draw a horizontal x-axis for 0 r s 10.
for -5x s0 Using a scale of 2 cm to represent $I million,
(iii) Hence, solve the equation x+6x +9 =0. draw a vertical P-axis for 4 s P < 3.
On your axes, plot the points given in the
table and join them with a smooth curve.
(6) Use your graph to find the value of x when
the profit of the company is zero.

Quadratic Equations and Functions Chapter 1 016

 to throw a ballon.
each expected on
are
participants Points a r e allocat
an annual carnival, onto a sandpit.
9. During
from the top of a
platform
of the platform
to where th
filled with
water foot
from the
Tlight, its height above
distance
horizontal the
based on the balloon. Durin8
a
Huixian
throws 200 + 7x 6r?, w h e r o i s
-

the equation y
=

balloon lands.
represented by the platform.
level, y em, is the foot of
ground from
distance, in metres,
the horizontal values of y.
corresponding
and the
values of r
some
shows
The table 6
3 4 5
I2
0 26
190 167 132 85
200 201
draw a
horizontal x-axis foor
1 m,
to represent
scale of 1
cm
a
(a) Using
0 x<6. draw a vertical y-axis for
s0 cm,
to represent
scale of 2
cm
a
Using
0 y < 250.
table and join them with a
in the
axes, plot the points given
On your
smooth curve.

to find
(b) Use your graph
7x-6x =0,
the positive
solution of 200 + when the balloon
)
from the foot of the platform
the horizontal distance
(ii)
is 50 cm above the ground.
above ground level
can only be modelled
Given that the flight of the balloon Explain
(c) the value of t.
200+7x-6r for 0 I a t , state
by the equation y =

your answer.

Solving Fractional
Equations that can
be reduced to
40Quadratic Equations
4
fractions of the form where A
In Book 2, we have learnt that algebraic are

have one or more

and/or B algebraic expressions, and B 0 . Equations that
are

algebraic fractions are known as fractional equations. Examples of fractional equations

are 2 5 - 1 and 2.

In this section, we will learn how to solve fractional equations that can be reduced
to quadratic equations.

017 Chapter 1 Quadratic Equations and Functions

Worked8 (Solving a Fractional Equalion by reducing it to a Quadratic
Example O Ecquation
Solve the equation +
Sr-1.

Solution:
S-1

x
+2
(X+ 2) = (5x - 1) x (x + 2) (multiply both sides by (r + 2) TTENTION
2 = (5x - 1)(x + 2) In an equation, it x = y, then
y = x. Hence, 0 = 5x* + 9x - 4 is

2 5x+ 10x - x- 2 equivalent to 5x + 9x-4 = 0.

2 5x+9x-2
0 5x + 9x-4
5x +9x-4 = 0 (rewrite the equation in the form ax+ br + c = 0)

Comparing 5x + 9x -4 = 0 with ax + hx + c=0, we have a = 5, b = 9 andc=-4.

-4ac
2a

92-4(5)-4)
2(5)
-9 81--80)
-9 81+80
10

-
-9t161
10
=0.369 (to 3 s.f.) or 2.17 (to 3 s.f.)

=0.369 or x = -2.17

SIMILAR
PRACTISE NOW 8
QUESTIONS

Exercise 1D Questions 1(a)-(),

1. Solve each of the following equations.
3(a),b), 4, 14(a)

a) x+3 (b) =3x - 1

x +4

2. Solve the equation =2x-3.

Quadratic Equations and Functions Chapter 1 018

Worked Solving a Fractional tquation by reducing
9
ii to a
Qualratic
Equation)
Example Solve the equation 2.

Solution:
2
x(x+ 2)Xx-5) = 2 x (r + 2 (r- 5) (multiply both sides
by (r +2x - 5))
ATTENTION
The LCM of the

x(2(x - 5)+ x(x+2s)=2(x +2)*-5) and denomi

S(x+2y1natr
3(x-5) +(x- 1)r + 2) = 2(r + 2 ) r - 5)

3x- 15+xr+2r-x-2= 2(r-5x + 2x- 10)

+4x-17 2(-3x- 10)
+4x- 17= 2r- 6x - 20
0=-10x-3
x-10x-3 =0 (rewrite the equation in the form
ax+bx +C=0)
Comparing x* - i0x - 3 = 0 with ax? + hx + c = 0, we hav
a= 1,b=-10 and c= -3.
-h -4ac
2a

-10)+-10 -40)%-3)
2(1)
10 + 100--12)

10+ 100+12

10 112
2
=
10.3 (to 3 s.f.) or -0.292 (to 3 s.f.)

. X= 10.3 or x = -0.292

019 Chapter 1 Quadratic Equations and Funciions

 PRACTISE NOW 9 SIMILAR
QUESTIONS

1. Solve each of the following equations. Exercise 1D Questions 5(a)-(h),

14(b)-(d)
(a) 5 - 3 - 2 =7

2. Solve the equation

- = 2.

Thinking
Time
Lixin is given the following fractional equation to solve:

X3)
Her working is as shown:
21
Xx-3)-x x(x - 3)= x(x-
3)
X X(x -

3)

7x-4(x-3) = 21

7x 4x+ 12 = 21
3x =9
xX=3

Verify if the solution x =3 is valid. Explain your answer

Applications of
Quadratic Equations in
5 Real-World Contexts
In order for quadratic equations to be applied to solve problems, we may have to
Tormulate the quadratic equations first. Worked Examples 10 and 11 illustrate this.

Quadratic Equations and Functions Chapter 1 020

 in
Application of Quadratic Equations
Worked
Example 10 Real-World Contexts)

On a map, piece ot land

a
is in the shape of
with sides of length x cm,
a right-angled triangle
(r+6) cm and (2r+ 5) cm.

(2r+ 5) cm
X cm

(r+6) cm

(i) given, formulate an equation

From the information
to 2r +8r- 11 = 0.
and show that it simplifies
11 0, giving both
ii) Solve the equation 2r 8r -
=

correct to 3 decimal places.

answers

of the triangle.
(ii) Hence, find the perimeter

Solution:
Theorem,
) Using Pythagoras'
+ ( t + 6) = (2r+ 5) SolProbl
vingemTip
+ r + 12x+36 = 4r+20x+ 25
Polya's 4-step Problem Solving
21+8x- 11 =0 (shown) Model
1. Understand the problem.
A right-angled triangle with 3

(i) Comparing 2r+8x

-
11 =0 with ax + bx +c =0, we have a 2,b =8 andc=-11.
=
sides is given in terms of .r.

2. Devise a plan.
= V 4ac U s e Pythagoras' Theorem to
formulate an equation in x.
2a
3. Implement the plan.
- 88 -4(2X-11) the
Simplify and solve
2(2) equation.
-8 64--88) 4. C h e c k your answers.

For answers in 3 signiticant

figures, intermediate answers

-8 + 64+88 to at least
m u s t be given

4 significant tigures.
Since length is positive, the
value of r is rejected.
= V152 negative
to compute
4 Use the value ofr
= 1.082 (to 3 d.p.) or-5.082 (to 3 d.p.) the perimeter.

(ii) Perimeter of the triangle =x+(r +6) + (21+5)

=X+X+ 6+ 2r+ 5
= 4x+ 111

Since the length of a triangle cannot be a negative value, x = 1.082.

.Perimeter of the triangle = 4(1.082) + 11

= 15.3 cm (to 3 s.f.)

021 Chapter 1 Quadratic Equations and Functions

 PRACTISE NOW 10 SIMILAR
QUESTIONS

Exercise 1D Questions 6, 7
The figure shows a right-angled triangle ABC with dimensions as shown.

C
8 cm
cm

) If the perimeter of the triangle is 17 cm, write down an expression, in terms ofx,
for the length of AB.
) Hence, formulate an equation in r andshowthat it simplifies to 2r-18x+ 17=0.
cii)Solve the equation 2x 18x + 17 0, giving both answers correct to
3 decimal places.
(iv) Hence, find the area of the triangle.

Worked
Example
ll (Application of Quadratic Equations in Real-World
Contexts) SolPrviongbleTimP
A family decides to travel from Singapore to Kuala Polya's 4-step Problem Solving
Lumpur, which are 315 km apart. The average speed Model

of an aeroplane is 350 km/h more than the speed of 1. Understand the problem.
The distance and average
a car. Let the average speed of the car be x km/h.
speed of the aeroplane and the
)Write down an expression, in terms of x, for the difference in travel time are

number of hours taken by the family if they given.

.What are the assumptions
choose to travel by aeroplane. made? The distance travelled
by the car and the aeroplane
If they choose to travel by aeroplane instead of by car, is exactly the same.

they will be able to reach Kuala Lumpur 3 hours and 2. Devise a plan.
15 minutes earlier. Use the algebraic method and
the relationship between
(ii) From the information given, formulate an equation speed, distance and time to
in x and show that it reduces to formulate an equation in .x.

13+4550x-441 000 =0. 3. Implement the plan.

(ii) Solve the equation 1 3 + 4550x - 441 000 = 0, What is the time taken by the

giving both your answers correct to 2 decimal places. aeroplane? 5 hours

+3350
What is the time taken by the
(iv) Find the time taken by the family to travel by 315

the car hours

aeroplane, giving your answer correct to
Which has a larger value?
nearest minute.
Hence, the difference is
315r +350
1=3,because
because

3 hours 15 minutes = 3 hours.

4. Check your answers.
For answers in 3 significant
figures, intermediate answers
must be given to at least
4 significant figures.
Since speed is positive, the
negative value of r is rejected.
Use the value of x to compute
the time taken to travel by

aeroplane.

Quadratic Equations and Functions Chapter 1 022

Solution:
315
) Number of hours taken by the family to travel by aeroplane =+ 350

315 315
X+ 350

315 315
x+350 3 ATTENTION
315 Convert 3 hours 15
315 hours. minutes into
x+350

x 4X(X + 350)- 3155x 4x350) = xAx(r + 350) (multiply both sides

by 4x(x + 350))
1260(x+ 350) 1260x = 13x(x +350)
1260x+441 000 1260x = 13:2+4550x
0 = 13x2+ 4550x -441 000
13 + 4550x-441 000 = 0 (shown)
(ii) Comparing 13x2 + 4550x 441 000 = 0 with ax?+ bx + c = 0, we have a = 13,
b= 4550 and c = -441 000.

- b b -4ac
2a

1550 t4550-4(13 -441 000)

2(13)
-4550 43 634 500
26
79.06 (to 2 d.p.) or 429.06 (to 2 d.p.)

' X = 79.06 or x = 429.06

(iv) Since the speed of the car cannot be a negative value, x = 79.06.

Number of hours taken by the family to travel by aeroplane = 315

79.06+350
= 0.7342 hours

= 0.7342 x 60

= 44 minutes (to

the nearest
minute)

023 Chapter 1 QuadratiC Equations and Functions

 PRACTISE NOW SIMILAR
QUESTIONS

Mr Lee drove from City Pto City Q, which are 600 km apart. During his return journey, Exercise 1D Questions 2, 8-13,
15
his average speed was increased by 7 km/h and the time taken was 15 minutes less.
) f he drove at an average speed of x km/h on his journey from City P to City Q,
formulate an equation in x and show that it reduces to r+ 7x- 16 800 =0.
i) Solve the equation * + 7x - 16 800 = 0, giving both your answers correct to

2 decimal places.
(i) Find the time taken for the return journey.

Exercise
1D

BASIC LEVEL INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

1. Solve each of the following equations. 3. Solve each of the following equations.

(a) 2x+ 1 (b) 3x-1= (a)+ 3-

(c) *=x d) 9 b)-2Xr-3)
5x (x-1(x+2)
5x
(e) 2x+1= -5 ( =x+4 3x +1 4. Find the valuels) of x that satisfy the equation

2. The difference between two positive numbers,

x+1
x+1 and,is1.
0) Form an equation in x and show that it 5. Solve each of the following equations.
reduces to r + x - 12 = 0.

i) Solve the equationr+x- 12 =0.

(a) - (b) 2=1-
r+5

i ) Hence, find the two numbers. (c)

2-3 =1 (d) 5
(

g-2 -2 -1'(-1*

Quadratic Equations and Functions Chapter 1 024

6. The perimeter of a rectangle is 112 cm and its 8. There are 2
printers in a
60 pages every x minutes.
library. Printer
breadth is x cm. A prints
Find, in terms of x, an expression for the ) Write down an
expression, terms of
length of the rectangle. the number of pages printed
1 minute. by Printer x,Afor
(ii) Given that the area of the rectangle is 597 cm2, in
formulate an equation in x and show that it (i) Given that Printer B takes 2
than Printer A to print 60 minutes
pages, writelonger
reduces to r - 56x + 597 = 0.
an expression, in terms
(ii) Solve the equation x - 56x + 597 = 0, giving of x, for the down
of pages printed by Printer B in nun
both answers correct to 2 decimal places. 1
minute
of When both printers are in use,
iv) Hence, find the length of the diagonal print a total of 144 pages in I minute.
hey are
able to
the rectangle.
iii) Formulate an
equation in x and show
thatat it
7. The figure shows a triangle ABC in which
reduces to 6x+7x-5 =0.
AP = 6x cm, AB = (3x + 5) cm, PO = x cm and iv) Solve the equation 6x + 7x-5 0.

cm. P and are two points on the lines (v) Hence, find the time taken by Printer
BC = 1 B to
print 144 pages.
AB and AC respectively such that AP PQ

9. In January 2009, the price of rice in

Singapore
was $x per kilogram. A food
catering company
spent an average of $350 on rice each month.
Cm
0) Write down an expression, in terms of ,
for the average amount of rice that this food
(3x+5)cm p catering company ordered in January 2009.
cm
In January 2012, the price of each kilogram of
rice had increased by 15 cents.
ii) Given that the company continued to spend
$350 on rice each month, write down an
B C expression, in terms of x, for the average
I cm
amount of rice ordered in January 2012.
) Formulate an equation in x and show that it (ii) If the difference in the amount of rice ordered
reduces to 3x - x = 0.
is 30 kg, formulate an equation in x and show
() Solve the equation 3r- x =0. that it reduces to 20x+3x -35 =0.
ii) Find the length of PB. (iv) Hence, find the price of each kilogram of rice

in January 2012.

025 Chapter 1 Quadratic Equations and Functions