There are several methods for solving quadratic equations. These methods include factoring, completing the square, and using the quadratic formula. This lesson will explain how to solve quadratic equations by the method of factoring. Here are the sections within this lesson page:

• The Multiplication Property of Zero
• Example 1
• Example 2
• Instructional Videos
• Interactive Quizmasters
• Related Lessons

    Before progressing with this lesson, you must first be knowledgeable with factoring polynomials. If you do not know how to factor polynomials or if you want to refresh your factoring skills, please access the lesson below.

    esson: Factoring Polynomials

    This method requires knowledge of a property that involves the number zero. To elicit this property, consider this equation.

    What m-values and n-values make this equation true?

    According to the multiplication property of zero, the equation is true when either...

    We will use this property to solve quadratic equations within the examples below.

    Here is the first quadratic equation we will solve.

    Since one side of the equation is equal to zero, the first step is to factor the polynomial.

    Next, we use The Multiplication Property of Zero. This means we set the factors equal to zero.

    Solving each of these linear equations separately, we get…

    If you would like to view our video on this topic, use the link below.

    ideo: Solve Quadratic Equations by Factoring

    If you would like to test your skills with our quizmaster on this topic, use the link below.

    uiz: Solving Quadratic Equations: Factoring

    Here is the second quadratic equation we will solve.

    Since the equation does not have a zero on one side, we cannot utilize The Multiplication Property of Zero. So, we need to get a zero by subtracting 3 from both sides and adding 2h to both sides. Doing so gives us this new equation.

    Now we need to factor the polynomial.

    Next, we set the factors equal to zero.

    Solving these linear equations yields…

    If you would like to view our video on this topic, use the link below.

    ideo: Solve Quadratic Equations by Factoring

    If you would like to test your skills with our quizmaster on this topic, use the link below.

    uiz: Solving Quadratic Equations: Factoring

    Try this instructional video to learn how to solve quadratic equations by factoring.

    ideo: Solving Quadratic Equations: Factoring

    Try this interactive quizmaster to determine if you understand how to solve quadratic equations by factoring.

    uiz: Solving Quadratic Equations: Factoring

    Try these related lessons.

    esson: Factoring Polynomials
    esson: Operations on Polynomials
    esson: Solving Quadratic Equations