Quadratic Formula Calculator

Discriminant, two real roots, a repeated root, or a complex pair. Click any i for detail.

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Coefficients

a
i
a

Coefficient of x². If a is 0 this is linear, not quadratic.

b
i
b

Coefficient of x.

c
i
c

Constant term.

How to use this calculator

  1. Enter a, b, and c.
  2. Read the discriminant and roots.
  3. If a is 0 we fall back to a linear solve.
  4. Complex roots show as a ± bi.

Results explained

x = (−b ± √(b² − 4ac)) / (2a). Discriminant d = b² − 4ac. d > 0 two reals, d = 0 one real, d < 0 complex conjugates.

Quick reference: quadratics

x² − 5x + 6 = (x − 2)(x − 3).

ItemDetail
d > 0Two real roots
d = 0Repeated real root
d < 0Complex pair
a = 0Linear bx + c = 0

This is algebra — not a graphing calculator.

How the estimate is built

x = (−b ± √(b² − 4ac)) / (2a).

Example scenario

a=1, b=−5, c=6 → d=1, roots 2 and 3.

FAQ

Vertex?

x = −b/(2a) is the axis of symmetry — not printed as a separate mode.

Fractions?

Enter decimals; we do not keep exact radicals.

Graphing?

Not on this page.