What happens if a = 0?
The calculator treats the expression as invalid because the quadratic formula requires a non-zero a coefficient. Adjust your equation or switch to a linear solver.
Step-by-step walkthrough
Quadratic Solver Guide
Use this companion guide beside the interactive calculator to make sure you understand the “why” behind every click. Each section includes the classroom explanation, student-friendly language, and quick practice prompts.
Before you start
Collect the data points listed below and double-check their units. Keeping an organized “givens” list is one of the fastest ways to reduce math errors and impress exam graders.
- algebra
- roots
- quadratic
Detailed procedure
Step 1
Enter coefficients a, b, and c for your quadratic equation.
Step 2
Ensure a ≠ 0; otherwise the equation is linear and cannot use the quadratic formula.
Step 3
Read the discriminant, roots, and root nature in the results panel.
Teaching & troubleshooting tips
How are complex roots displayed?
When the discriminant is negative, roots are shown as a conjugate pair in the form real ± imaginary·i.