x = [-2 ± √48] / 2 - United Radiology

February 24, 2026 · United Radiology

["# Understanding the Quadratic Formula: Solving x = [-2 ± √48] / 2", "Solving quadratic equations is a fundamental skill in algebra, and the quadratic formula is a powerful tool that helps find the roots of equations in the standard form ( ax^2 + bx + c = 0 ). One common form that appears when using the quadratic formula is:", "x = [-b ± √(b² - 4ac)] / (2a)", "This article dives into the calculation and interpretation of a specific quadratic expression:
\nx = [-2 ± √48] / 2", "---", "### Breaking Down the Expression", "The expression
\nx = [-2 ± √48] / 2
\nrepresents the general solution to a quadratic equation using the quadratic formula, where:", "- ( a = 1 )
\n- ( b = -2 )
\n- ( c = ? ) (but not explicitly needed)
\n- The discriminant ( √48 ) tells us about the nature of the roots.", "Let’s simplify and solve step by step.", "---", "### Step 1: Simplify the Square Root", "Start by simplifying √48:
\n[
\n\sqrt{48} = \sqrt{16 \ imes 3} = \sqrt{16} \cdot \sqrt{3} = 4\sqrt{3}
\n]
\nSo, the expression becomes:
\n[
\nx = \frac{-2 \pm 4\sqrt{3}}{2}
\n]", "---", "### Step 2: Divide Numerator by Denominator", "Split the fraction:
\n[
\nx = \frac{-2}{2} \pm \frac{4\sqrt{3}}{2} = -1 \pm 2\sqrt{3}
\n]", "Thus, the two solutions are:
\n[
\nx = -1 + 2\sqrt{3} \quad \ ext{and} \quad x = -1 - 2\sqrt{3}
\n]", "---", "### Step 3: Determine the Nature of Roots", "The discriminant ( D = b^2 - 4ac ) dictates the number and type of roots:", "[
\nD = (-2)^2 - 4(1)(48) = 4 - 192 = -188
\n]", "Since the discriminant is negative, the equation has no real solutions—it possesses two complex conjugate roots.", "---", "### Practical Applications of This Expression", "While not all quadratic equations yield real roots, forms like x = [-2 ± √48] / 2 often appear when:", "- Calculating vertex coordinates in parabola analysis
\n- Analyzing intersections with the x-axis
\n- Teaching algebra and strengthening understanding of the quadratic formula", "---", "### Final Thoughts", "Understanding how to manipulate and interpret expressions like x = [-2 ± √48] / 2 strengthens your algebraic skills and prepares you for solving complex equations in higher mathematics. Whether you're computing exact values or exploring complex numbers, mastering these steps ensures confidence in working with quadratics.", "---", "Keywords for SEO: quadratic formula, solve quadratic equations, x = [-2 ± √48]/2, simplifying square roots, discriminant negative, complex roots, algebra tutorial, quadratic solutions, algebra II, solving equations, mathematical expressions, quadratic formula steps, complex roots explained.", "---", "Multiple Choice Quiz (Optional for Readers):
\nWhat does the expression x = [-2 ± √48] / 2 represent?
\nA) Real roots with positive discriminant
\nB) The general quadratic solution with a = 2
\nC) Two complex roots from a negative discriminant
\nD) A linear equation", "Answer: C) Two complex roots from a negative discriminant", "---", "By grasping the structure and meaning behind expressions like x = [-2 ± √48] / 2, you build a solid foundation for mastering algebra and applying it across scientific and engineering disciplines."]

Related Articles

Trending Articles

Archive