Quadratic Equations – Class 10 Mathematics (Quick Revision Notes)

quadratic equations class 10 maths quick revision one shot

1. Introduction

  • An equation involving one variable and having maximum power 2 is called a quadratic equation.
  • Quadratic equations are widely used in algebra, geometry, physics, and daily life problems.
  • The word quadratic comes from the Latin word “quadratus”, meaning square.

2. Standard Form of a Quadratic Equation

  • A quadratic equation in variable x is written as:
    ax² + bx + c = 0
  • Where:
    • a, b, c are real numbers
    • a ≠ 0
  • If a = 0, the equation becomes linear, not quadratic.

3. Examples of Quadratic Equations

  • x² + 5x + 6 = 0
  • 2x² − 7x + 3 = 0
  • x² − 4 = 0
  • (x − 3)(x + 2) = 0

Not Quadratic Equations

  • 3x + 5 = 0 (linear equation)
  • x³ − 2x + 1 = 0 (degree 3)

4. Roots of a Quadratic Equation

  • The solutions of a quadratic equation are called its roots.
  • Roots are the values of x which satisfy the equation.
  • A quadratic equation can have two roots (may be equal or different).

5. Methods of Solving Quadratic Equations (NCERT)

Quadratic equations can be solved by the following three methods:

(A) Factorisation Method

  • Express the quadratic equation as a product of two linear factors.
  • Set each factor equal to zero.
  • Find the values of x.

Steps:

  1. Write equation in standard form.
  2. Factorise the middle term.
  3. Equate each factor to zero.
  4. Solve for x.

(B) Completing the Square Method

  • Convert the equation into a perfect square.
  • Useful when factorisation is difficult.

Steps:

  1. Divide the equation by coefficient of x² (if not 1).
  2. Move constant term to RHS.
  3. Add square of half the coefficient of x on both sides.
  4. Solve the resulting equation.

(C) Quadratic Formula Method

  • Used when equation is not easily factorisable.
  • The quadratic formula is:
  • Substitute values of a, b, c and simplify.

6. Discriminant

  • The expression b² − 4ac is called the discriminant.
  • Discriminant is denoted by D.

D = b2 – 4ac


7. Nature of Roots Based on Discriminant

Value of DNature of Roots
D > 0Two distinct real roots
D = 0Two equal real roots
D < 0No real roots

8. Geometrical Meaning of Quadratic Equation

  • The graph of a quadratic equation represents a parabola.
  • The roots are the points where the parabola cuts the x-axis.
  • If the parabola:
    • Cuts x-axis at two points → two real roots
    • Touches x-axis at one point → equal roots
    • Does not touch x-axis → no real roots

9. Solution of a Quadratic Equation

  • A quadratic equation may have:
    • Two real solutions
    • One real solution (repeated)
    • No real solution

10. Applications of Quadratic Equations

Quadratic equations are used to solve problems related to:

  • Area and perimeter
  • Speed, time, and distance
  • Number problems
  • Age problems
  • Geometrical figures
  • Product and sum of numbers

11. Important NCERT Points to Remember

  • Standard form: ax² + bx + c = 0
  • a ≠ 0 is compulsory
  • Roots are obtained by factorisation, completing square, or quadratic formula
  • Discriminant decides the nature of roots
  • Quadratic formula is the most general method

12. Important Formulas

  • Quadratic Formula:
  • Discriminant:
    D = b2 – 4ac

13. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Taking a = 0 in quadratic equation
  • Wrong calculation of discriminant
  • Sign errors in quadratic formula
  • Incorrect factorisation

14. Quick Revision Summary

  • Degree of quadratic equation = 2
  • Maximum number of roots = 2
  • Discriminant determines root nature
  • Graph is always a parabola
  • Quadratic formula works for all quadratic equations

15. Quick Revision One Shot Video : Quadratic Equations Class 10

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