Quadratic Formula Calculator

Solve real or complex roots of ax² + bx + c = 0.

Calculations happen locally. We do not send your values to our server.

Example

For x² − 5x + 6 = 0, entering a=1, b=−5, and c=6 returns the roots 2 and 3.

Calculation method

The discriminant is b²−4ac. Real roots use (−b ± √discriminant)/(2a); a negative discriminant produces a complex conjugate pair.

Important notes

The coefficient a cannot be zero because that would make the equation linear rather than quadratic.

Frequently asked questions

What does a zero discriminant mean?

It means both quadratic-formula branches produce the same repeated real root.

Can this show complex roots?

Yes. A negative discriminant is returned as a real part plus or minus an imaginary part.

Does it factor the polynomial?

No. It calculates the roots directly from the coefficients.

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