In algebra, a quadratic equation is an expression of the form \(ax^2 + bx + c = 0\), where \(a\), \(b\), and \(c\) are constants, and \(a\) is not equal to zero. The solutions to this equation are known as the roots. These roots can be real or complex numbers based on the discriminant value. To find these roots, we often use the **quadratic formula**: \[ \text{x} = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a} \] This formula helps us calculate the two roots, known commonly as \(A\) and \(B\) in the context of this exercise. When finding these values, remember to:
- Identify \(a\), \(b\), and \(c\) from your equation.
- Calculate the discriminant \(b^2 - 4ac\).
- Use the quadratic formula, applying correct algebraic techniques like completing the square, where needed.
For example, given the quadratic equation \(x^2 - 12x + 27 = 0\), we calculate the roots \(A = 9\) and \(B = 3\) using the formula. Watch out for plus-minus signs as they yield two distinct solutions.