SMK Abu Bakar

Additional Mathematics Form 4

Chapter 2 – Quadratic Functions
Answer
Self Practice 2.1

1. Solve the following quadratic equations by using completing the square method. Give your answers in
three decimal places.

(a) 𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 − 9 = 0 (b) 𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 5 = 0 (c) −𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 9 = 0

(d) 2𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 3 = 0 (e) 4𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 1 = 0 (f) −2𝑥 2 + 7𝑥 + 6 = 0
Answer:
(a) 𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 − 9 = 0 (c) 𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 − 9 = 0
𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 = 9 𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 = 9
2
4 2 4 2 2
4 2 4 2
𝑥 + 4𝑥 + ( ) = 9 + ( ) 𝑥 + 4𝑥 + ( ) = 9 + ( )
2 2 2 2
(𝑥 + 2)2 = 9 + 4 (𝑥 + 2)2 = 9 + 4
(𝑥 + 2)2 = 13 (𝑥 + 2)2 = 13
𝑥 + 2 = ±√13 𝑥 + 2 = ±√13
𝑥 = ±√13 − 2 𝑥 = ±√13 − 2
𝑥 = −√13 − 2 and √13 − 2 𝑥 = −√13 − 2 and √13 − 2
𝑥 = −5.606 and 1.606 𝑥 = −5.606 and 1.606

(b) 𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 5 = 0 (d) 2𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 3 = 0
𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 = 5 3
𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 = −
2
−3 2 −3 2 2
𝑥 − 3𝑥 + ( ) = 5 + ( ) −3 2
3 −3 2
2 2 2
𝑥 − 3𝑥 + ( ) = − + ( )
3 2
9 2 2 2
(𝑥 − ) = 5 + 3 2
3 9
2 4 (𝑥 − ) = − +
3 2
29 2 2 4
(𝑥 − ) = 3 2
3
2 4 (𝑥 − ) =
2 4
3 29
𝑥− = ±√ 3 3
2 4 𝑥− = ±√
2 4
29 3
𝑥 = ±√ + 3 3
4 2 𝑥 = ±√ +
4 2
29 3 29 3
𝑥 = −√ + and √ + 3 3 3 3
4 2 4 2 𝑥 = −√ + and √ +
4 2 4 2
𝑥 = −1.193 and 4.193
𝑥 = 0.634 and 2.366
1 Quadratic Functions
(e) 4𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 1 = 0 (f) −2𝑥 2 + 7𝑥 + 6 = 0
1 2𝑥 2 − 7𝑥 = 6
𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 = −
4 7
2 𝑥2 − 𝑥 = 3
−2 1 −2 2 2
𝑥2 − 𝑥 + ( ) = − + ( )
2 4 2 7 2 7 2
7
1
(𝑥 − 1)2 = − + 1 𝑥2 − 𝑥 + ( 2 ) = 3 + ( 2 )
4 2 2 2
3
(𝑥 − 1)2 = 7 2 49
4 (𝑥 − ) = 3 +
4 16
3 7 2
97
𝑥 − 1 = ±√ (𝑥 − ) =
4 4 16

3 7 97
𝑥 = ±√ + 1 𝑥− = ±√
4 4 16

3 3 97 7
𝑥 = −√ + 1 and √ + 1 𝑥 = ±√ +
4 4 16 4
𝑥 = 0.134 and 1.866 97 7 97 7
𝑥 = −√ + and √ +
16 4 16 4
𝑥 = −0.712 and 4.212

2 Quadratic Functions
2. Solve the following quadratic equations by using formula. Give your answers in three decimal places.
(a) 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 7 = 0 (b) 2𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 1 = 0 (c) 3𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 1 = 0
(d) 4𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 2 = 0 (e) (𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 − 3) = 5 (f) (2𝑥 − 3)2 = 6

Answer:
(a) 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 7 = 0 (d) 4𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 2 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −4, 𝑐 = −7 𝑎 = 4, 𝑏 = −3, 𝑐 = −2
−(−4) ± √(−4)2 − 4(1)(−7) −(−3) ± √(−3)2 − 4(4)(−2)
𝑥= 𝑥=
2(1) 2(4)
4 ± √44 3 ± √41
𝑥= 𝑥=
2 8
4 − √44 4 + √44 3 − √41 3 + √41
𝑥= and 𝑥= and
2 2 8 8
𝑥 = −1.317 and 5.317 𝑥 = −0.425 and 1.175

(b) 2𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 1 = 0 (e) (𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 − 3) = 5

𝑎 = 2, 𝑏 = 2, 𝑐 = −1 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 3 = 5
−(2) ± √(2)2 − 4(2)(−1) 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 2 = 0
𝑥= 𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −4, 𝑐 = −2
2(2)
−2 ± √12 −(−4) ± √(−4)2 − 4(1)(−2)
𝑥= 𝑥=
4 2(1)
−2 − √12 −2 + √12 4 ± √24
𝑥= and 𝑥=
4 4 2
𝑥 = −1.366 and 0.366 4 − √24 4 + √24
𝑥= and
2 2
𝑥 = −0.449 and 4.449
2
(c) 3𝑥 − 8𝑥 + 1 = 0
𝑎 = 3, 𝑏 = −8, 𝑐 = 1
−(−8) ± √(−8)2 − 4(3)(1) (f) (2𝑥 − 3)2 = 6
𝑥=
2(3) 4𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 9 = 6
8 ± √52 4𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 3 = 0
𝑥= 𝑎 = 4, 𝑏 = −12, 𝑐 = 3
6
8 − √52 8 + √52 −(−12) ± √(−12)2 − 4(4)(3)
𝑥= and 𝑥=
6 6 2(4)
𝑥 = 0.131 and 2.535 12 ± √96
𝑥=
8
12 − √96 12 + √96
𝑥= and
8 8
𝑥 = 0.275 and 2.725

3 Quadratic Functions
3. (a) The length of the diagonal of a rectangle is 10 cm. If the length is 2 cm longer than its width, find the
length and the width of the rectangle.
(b) Find the measurements of a rectangle with a perimeter of 26 cm and an area of 40 cm2.

Answer:
(a) 𝑥 2 + (𝑥 + 2)2 = 102
𝑥+2
𝑥 2 + (𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 4) = 100
2𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 − 96 = 0
𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 48 = 0 10 cm x
(𝑥 − 6)(𝑥 + 8) = 0
𝑥 − 6 = 0 and 𝑥+8 =0
𝑥=6 𝑥 = −8 (ignore)

𝑥 + 2 = (6) + 2
=8

The length = 8 cm and the width = 6 cm.

(b) Perimeter = 26 cm.

2𝑥 + 2𝑦 = 26
x
𝑥 + 𝑦 = 13
𝑥 = 13 − 𝑦 -----①
y
Area = 40 cm2
𝑥𝑦 = 40 -----②

Substitute ① into ②.
(13 − 𝑦)𝑦 = 40
13𝑦 − 𝑦 2 = 40
𝑦 2 − 13𝑦 + 40 = 0
(𝑦 − 5)(𝑦 − 8) = 0
𝑦 − 5 = 0 and 𝑦 − 8 = 0
𝑦=5 𝑦=8

Substitute 𝑦 = 5 into ①, 𝑥 = 13 − (5) = 8

Substitute 𝑦 = 8 into ①, 𝑥 = 13 − (8) = 5

The measurements of a rectangle is 5 cm × 8 cm.

4 Quadratic Functions
4. The diagram on the right shows a trapezium PQRS where (𝑥 + 3) cm
PQ= (𝑥 − 1) cm, PS = (𝑥 + 3) cm and QR = (3𝑥 + 2) cm. P S
Given the area of the trapezium is 17 cm2, find the value of x.
(𝑥 − 1) cm
Answer:
The area of the trapezium is 17 cm2. Q R
(3𝑥 + 2) cm
1
(𝑥 − 1)[(𝑥 + 3) + (3𝑥 + 2)] = 17
2
(𝑥 − 1)[4𝑥 + 5] = 34
4𝑥2 + 𝑥 − 5 = 34
4𝑥2 + 𝑥 − 39 = 0
(𝑥 − 3)(4𝑥 + 13) = 0
𝑥 − 3 = 0 and 4𝑥 + 13 = 0
13
𝑥=3 𝑥=− (ignore)
4

𝑥=3

Self Practice 2.2

1. Form quadratic equations which have the following roots.

1
(a) 2 and 6 (b) −1 and 4 (c) −4 and −7 (d) and − 5
5

Answer:
(a) Given 𝛼 = 2 and 𝛽 = 6.
Sum of roots, 𝛼 + 𝛽 = 2 + 6
=8
Product of roots, 𝛼𝛽 = 2 × 6
= 12
Thus, the quadratic equations with roots 2 and 6 is
𝑥 2 − (sum of roots)𝑥 + (product of roots) = 0
𝑥 2 − (𝛼 + 𝛽)𝑥 + (𝛼𝛽) = 0
𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 12 = 0

(b) Given 𝛼 = −1 and 𝛽 = 4.

Sum of roots, 𝛼 + 𝛽 = −1 + 4
=3
Product of roots, 𝛼𝛽 = (−1) × 4
= −4
Thus, the quadratic equations with roots 2 and 6 is
𝑥 2 − (sum of roots)𝑥 + (product of roots) = 0
𝑥 2 − (𝛼 + 𝛽)𝑥 + (𝛼𝛽) = 0
𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 + (−4) = 0
𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 4 = 0

5 Quadratic Functions
(c) Given 𝛼 = −4 and 𝛽 = −7.
Sum of roots, 𝛼 + 𝛽 = (−4) + (−7)
= −11
Product of roots, 𝛼𝛽 = (−4) × (−7)
= 28
Thus, the quadratic equations with roots 2 and 6 is
𝑥 2 − (sum of roots)𝑥 + (product of roots) = 0
𝑥 2 − (𝛼 + 𝛽)𝑥 + (𝛼𝛽) = 0
𝑥 2 − (−11)𝑥 + 28 = 0
𝑥 2 + 11𝑥 + 28 = 0

(d) 1
Given 𝛼 = and 𝛽 = −5.
5
1
Sum of roots, 𝛼 + 𝛽 = + (−5)
5
24
=−
5
1
Product of roots, 𝛼𝛽 = ( ) × (−5)
5
= −1
Thus, the quadratic equations with roots 2 and 6 is
𝑥 2 − (sum of roots)𝑥 + (product of roots) = 0
𝑥 2 − (𝛼 + 𝛽)𝑥 + (𝛼𝛽) = 0
24
𝑥 2 − (− ) 𝑥 + (−1) = 0
5
5𝑥 2 + 24𝑥 − 5 = 0

6 Quadratic Functions
2. The quadratic equation 𝑥 2 + (𝑝 − 5)𝑥 + 2𝑞 = 0 has roots of −3 and 6. Find the value of p and of q.

Answer:
𝑥 2 + (𝑝 − 5)𝑥 + 2𝑞 = 0 has roots of −3:
(−3)2 + (𝑝 − 5)(−3) + 2𝑞 = 0
9 − 3𝑝 + 15 + 2𝑞 = 0
2𝑞 = 3𝑝 − 24
3
𝑞 = 𝑝 − 12 -----①
2

𝑥 2 + (𝑝 − 5)𝑥 + 2𝑞 = 0 has roots of 6:

(6)2 + (𝑝 − 5)(6) + 2𝑞 = 0
36 + 6𝑝 − 30 + 2𝑞 = 0
6𝑝 + 2𝑞 = −6 -----②
Substitute ① into ②.
3
6𝑝 + 2 ( 𝑝 − 12) = −6
2
6𝑝 + 3𝑝 − 24 = −6
9𝑝 = 18
𝑝=2
Substitute 𝑝 = 2 into ①.
3
𝑞 = (2) − 12
2
𝑞 = 3 − 12
𝑞 = −9

7 Quadratic Functions
3. If 𝛼 and 𝛽 are the roots of the quadratic equation 5𝑥 2 − 10𝑥 − 9 = 0, form quadratic equations with the
following roots.
𝛼 𝛽
(a) 𝛼 + 2 and 𝛽 + 2 (b) 5𝛼 and 5𝛽 (c) 𝛼 − 1 and 𝛽 − 1 (d) and
3 3

Answer:
5𝑥 2 − 10𝑥 − 9 = 0
𝑎 = 5, 𝑏 = −10, 𝑐 = −9
𝑏 −10 𝑐 −9 9
𝛼+𝛽 =− =− = 2 and 𝛼𝛽 = = =−
𝑎 5 𝑎 5 5

(a) Sum of roots: Product of roots:

(𝛼 + 2) + (𝛽 + 2) = (𝛼 + 𝛽) + 4 (𝛼 + 2)(𝛽 + 2) = 𝛼𝛽 + 2𝛼 + 2𝛽 + 4
=2+4 = 𝛼𝛽 + 2(𝛼 + 𝛽) + 4
=6 9
= − + 2(2) + 4
5
31
=
5

Thus, the quadratic equation with roots 𝛼 + 2 and 𝛽 + 2 is

31
𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + =0
5
5𝑥 2 − 30𝑥 + 31 = 0

(b) Sum of roots: Product of roots:

(5𝛼) + (5𝛽) = 5(𝛼 + 𝛽) (5𝛼)(5𝛽) = 25𝛼𝛽
= 5(2) 9
= 25 (− )
= 10 5
= −45

Thus, the quadratic equation with roots 5𝛼 and 5𝛽 is

𝑥 2 − 10𝑥 + (−45) = 0
𝑥 2 − 10𝑥 − 45 = 0

8 Quadratic Functions
(c) Sum of roots: Product of roots:
(𝛼 − 1) + (𝛽 − 1) = (𝛼 + 𝛽) − 2 (𝛼 − 1)(𝛽 − 1) = 𝛼𝛽 − 𝛼 − 𝛽 + 1
=2−2 = 𝛼𝛽 − (𝛼 + 𝛽) + 1
=0 9
= − − (2) + 1
5
14
=−
5

Thus, the quadratic equation with roots 𝛼 − 1 and 𝛽 − 1 is

14
𝑥 2 − (0)𝑥 − =0
5
5𝑥 2 − 14 = 0

(d) Sum of roots: Product of roots:

𝛼 𝛽 (𝛼 + 𝛽) 𝛼 𝛽 𝛼𝛽
+( )= ( )=
3 3 3 3 3 9
2 9
= −
3 = ( 5)
9
1
=−
5

𝛼 𝛽
Thus, the quadratic equation with roots and is
3 3
2 1
𝑥 2 − ( ) 𝑥 + (− ) = 0
3 5
2
15𝑥 − 10𝑥 − 3 = 0

9 Quadratic Functions
4. If 𝛼 and 𝛽 are the roots of the quadratic equation 2𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 = 1, find the quadratic equations with the
following roots.
1 1 1 1 𝛼 𝛽
(a) , (b) (α + ) , (𝛽 + ) (c) 𝛼 2 , 𝛽 2 (d) ,
𝛼 𝛽 𝛽 𝛼 𝛽 𝛼

Answer:
2𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 = 1
2𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 − 1 = 0
𝑎 = 2, 𝑏 = 5, 𝑐 = −1
𝑏 5 𝑐 −1 1
𝛼+𝛽 =− =− and 𝛼𝛽 = = =−
𝑎 2 𝑎 2 2

(a) Sum of roots: Product of roots:

1 1 (𝛼 + 𝛽) 1 1 1
( )+( )= ( )( ) =
𝛼 𝛽 𝛼𝛽 𝛼 𝛽 𝛼𝛽
5
−2 1
= =( )
1 1
−2 −2
=5 = −2

1 1
Thus, the quadratic equation with roots and is
𝛼 𝛽
𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + (−2) = 0
𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 − 2 = 0

(b) Sum of roots: Product of roots:

1 1 1 1 1 1 1
(α + ) + (𝛽 + ) = (𝛼 + 𝛽) + ( + ) (α + ) (𝛽 + ) = 𝛼𝛽 + 1 + 1 +
𝛽 𝛼 𝛽 𝛼 𝛽 𝛼 𝛼𝛽
5 1 1
= (− ) + 5 = (− ) + 1 + 1 +
2 2 1
−2
5
= 1
2 = (− ) + 1 + 1 − 2
2
1
=−
2

1 1
Thus, the quadratic equation with roots (α + ) and (𝛽 + ) is
𝛽 𝛼
5 1
𝑥 2 − 𝑥 + (− ) = 0
2 2
2𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 − 1 = 0

10 Quadratic Functions
(c) Sum of roots: Product of roots:
𝛼 2 + 𝛽 2 = (𝛼 + 𝛽)2 − 2𝛼𝛽 (𝛼 2 )(𝛽2 ) = (𝛼𝛽)2
5 2 1 1 2
= (− ) − 2 (− ) = (− )
2 2 2
29 1
= =
4 4

Thus, the quadratic equation with roots 𝛼 2 and 𝛽 2 is

29 1
𝑥2 − 𝑥 + = 0
4 4
2
4𝑥 − 29𝑥 + 1 = 0

(d) Sum of roots: Product of roots:

𝛼 𝛽 𝛼 2 + 𝛽2 𝛼 𝛽
( )+( )= ( )( ) = 1
𝛽 𝛼 𝛼𝛽 𝛽 𝛼
29
= 4
1
−2
29
=−
2

𝛼 𝛽
Thus, the quadratic equation with roots and is
𝛽 𝛼
29
𝑥 2 − (− )𝑥 + 1 = 0
2
2𝑥 2 + 29𝑥 + 2 = 0

11 Quadratic Functions
5. A quadratic equation 2𝑥 2 = 6𝑥 + 3 has two roots p and q. Find the quadratic equations with roots p2 q
and 𝑝𝑞 2 .

Answer:
2𝑥 2 = 6𝑥 + 3
2𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 − 3 = 0
𝑎 = 2, 𝑏 = −6, 𝑐 = −3
𝑏 −6 𝑐 −3 3
𝑝+𝑞 =− =− = 3 and 𝛼𝛽 = = =−
𝑎 2 𝑎 2 2

Sum of roots: Product of roots:

𝑝2 𝑞 + 𝑝𝑞 2 = 𝑝𝑞(𝑝 + 𝑞) (𝑝2 𝑞)(𝑝𝑞 2 ) = (𝑝𝑞)3
3 3 3
= (− ) (3) = (− )
2 2
9 27
=− =−
2 8

Thus, the quadratic equation with roots 𝑝2 𝑞 and 𝑝𝑞 2 is

9 27
𝑥 2 − (− ) 𝑥 + (− ) = 0
2 8
8𝑥 2 + 36𝑥 − 27 = 0

12 Quadratic Functions
Self Practice 2.3

1. Solve each of the following quadratic inequalities by using graph sketching method, number line method
or table method.
(a) 𝑥 2 < 4 (b) (2 − 𝑥)(8 − 𝑥) < 0 (c) 𝑥 2 ≤ 4𝑥 + 12
(d) 𝑥(𝑥 − 2) ≥ 3 (e) (𝑥 + 2)2 < 2𝑥 + 7 (f) (3𝑥 + 1)(5 − 𝑥) > 13

Answer:
(a) *Change the coefficient of 𝑥 2
𝑥2 < 4
to +ve. ( shape graph)
𝑥2 − 4 < 0
(𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 + 2) < 0
*Shaded region refer to <
Let (𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 2) = 0 (the last inequality sign)
𝑥 + 2 = 0 and 𝑥 − 2 = 0
𝑥 = −2 𝑥=2
−2 2 * < & ≤ : lower part of x-axis.

−2 < 𝑥 < 2 ** > & ≥ : upper part of x-axis.

(b) (2 − 𝑥)(8 − 𝑥) < 0

Let (2 − 𝑥)(8 − 𝑥) = 0
2 − 𝑥 = 0 and n 8 − 𝑥 =
0 2 8
𝑥=2 𝑥=8

2<𝑥<8

(c) 𝑥 2 ≤ 4𝑥 + 12
𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 12 ≤ 0
(𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 6) ≤ 0

Let (𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 6) = 0
𝑥 + 2 = 0 and 𝑥 − 6 = 0
𝑥 = −2 𝑥=6 −2 6

−2 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 6

13 Quadratic Functions
(d) 𝑥(𝑥 − 2) ≥ 3
2
𝑥 − 2𝑥 − 3 ≥ 0
(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 3) ≥ 0

Let (𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 3) = 0
𝑥 + 1 = 0 and 𝑥 − 3 = 0
𝑥 = −1 𝑥=3 −1 3

𝑥 ≤ −1 or 𝑥 ≥ 3

(e) (𝑥 + 2)2 < 2𝑥 + 7

𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 4 < 2𝑥 + 7
𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 3 < 0
(𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 − 1) < 0

Let (𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 − 1) = 0
𝑥 + 3 = 0 and 𝑥 − 1 = 0
𝑥 = −3 𝑥=1 −3 1

−3 < 𝑥 < 1

(f) ( 3𝑥 + 1)(5 − 𝑥) > 13

15𝑥 − 3𝑥 2 + 5 − 𝑥 > 13 *Change the coefficient of 𝑥 2
3𝑥 2 − 14𝑥 + 8 < 0 to +ve. ( shape graph)
(3𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 − 4) < 0

Let (3𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 − 4) = 0

3𝑥 − 2 = 0 and 𝑥 − 4 = 0
2
𝑥= 𝑥=4 2 4
3
3
2
<𝑥<4
3

14 Quadratic Functions
2. Find the range of values of x for 3𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 ≥ 16 + 𝑥(2𝑥 + 1).

Answer:
3𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 ≥ 16 + 𝑥(2𝑥 + 1)
3𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 ≥ 16 + 2𝑥 2 + 𝑥
𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 − 16 ≥ 0
(𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 8) ≥ 0

Let (𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 8) = 0
𝑥 + 2 = 0 and 𝑥 − 8 = 0
𝑥 = −2 𝑥=8 −2 8

𝑥 ≤ −2 or 𝑥 ≥ 8

15 Quadratic Functions
Intensive Practice 2.1

1. Solve the quadratic equation 3𝑥(𝑥 − 5) = 2𝑥 − 1. Give the answer in three decimal places.

Answer:
3𝑥(𝑥 − 5) = 2𝑥 − 1
3𝑥 2 − 15𝑥 = 2𝑥 − 1
3𝑥 2 − 17𝑥 + 1 = 0
𝑎 = 3, 𝑏 = −17, 𝑐 = 1

−(−17) ± √(−17)2 − 4(3)(1)

𝑥=
2(6)

17 ± √277
𝑥=
6
17 − √277 17 + √277
𝑥= and 𝑥=
6 6
𝑥 = 0.059 𝑥 = 5.607

2. Given a quadratic equation 2(𝑥 − 5)2 = 4(𝑥 + 7),

(a) express the equation in general form, that is a𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0.
(b) state the sum of roots and the product of roots of the equation.

Answer:
(a) 2(𝑥 − 5)2 = 4(𝑥 + 7)
2(𝑥 2 − 10𝑥 + 25) = 4(𝑥 + 7)
2𝑥 2 − 20𝑥 + 50 = 4𝑥 + 28
2𝑥 2 − 24𝑥 + 22 = 0
𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 11 = 0

(b) 𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 11 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −12, 𝑐 = 11
𝑏 𝑐
Sum of roots = − Sum of roots =
𝑎 𝑎
−12 11
=− =
1 1
= 12 = 11

16 Quadratic Functions
3. If 𝛼 and 𝛽 are the roots of the quadratic equation 2𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 − 7 = 0, form equations with the following
roots:
(a) 1 1 (b) 5𝛼 5𝛽 (c) 𝛼 + 3𝛽, 3𝛼 + 𝛽
, ,
2𝛼 + 1 2𝛽 + 1 𝛽 𝛼

Answer:
2𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 − 7 = 0
𝑎 = 2, 𝑏 = 6, 𝑐 = −7
𝑏 6 𝑐 −7 7
𝛼 + 𝛽 = − = − = −3 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝛼𝛽 = = =−
𝑎 2 𝑎 2 2
(a) Sum of roots: Product of roots:
1 1 (2𝛽 + 1) + (2𝛼 + 1) 1 1 1
( )+( )= ( )( )=
2𝛼 + 1 2𝛽 + 1 (2𝛼 + 1)(2𝛽 + 1) 2𝛼 + 1 2𝛽 + 1 4𝛼𝛽 + 2𝛼 + 2𝛽 + 1
2( 𝛼 + 𝛽) + 2 1
= =( )
4𝛼𝛽 + 2𝛼 + 2𝛽 + 1 4𝛼𝛽 + 2( 𝛼 + 𝛽) + 1
2( 𝛼 + 𝛽) + 2 1
= =
4𝛼𝛽 + 2( 𝛼 + 𝛽) + 1 7
4 − 2 + 2(−3) + 1
2(−3) + 2 1
= =−
7
4 − 2 + 2(−3) + 1 19
4
=
19

1 1
Thus, the quadratic equation with roots and is
2𝛼 + 1 2𝛽 + 1
4 1
𝑥2 − ( ) 𝑥 + (− ) = 0
19 19
2
19𝑥 − 4𝑥 − 1 = 0

(b) Sum of roots: Product of roots:

5𝛼 5𝛽 5𝛼 2 + 5𝛽 2 5𝛼 5𝛽
( )+( )= ( ) ( ) = 25
𝛽 𝛼 𝛼𝛽 𝛽 𝛼
5( 𝛼 2 + 𝛽 2 )
=
𝛼𝛽
5[( 𝛼 + 𝛽)2 − 2𝛼𝛽]
=
𝛼𝛽
7
5 (−3)2 − 2 − 2
=
7
−2
160
=−
7
1 1
Thus, the quadratic equation with roots and is
2𝛼 + 1 2𝛽 + 1
160
𝑥 2 − (− ) 𝑥 + 25 = 0
7
7𝑥 2 + 160𝑥 + 175 = 0
17 Quadratic Functions
4. If one of the roots of the equation 3𝑥 2 + 19𝑥 + 𝑘 = 0 is −7, find the value of the constant k.
Answer:
Substitute 𝑥 = −7 into 3𝑥 2 + 19𝑥 + 𝑘 = 0.
3(−7)2 + 19(−7) + 𝑘 = 0
3(49) + 19(−7) + 𝑘 = 0
147 − 133 + 𝑘 = 0
𝑘 = −14

5. Given the quadratic equation 𝑟𝑥 2 + (𝑟 − 1)𝑥 + 2𝑟 + 3 = 0, where r is a non-zero integer, find the value
of r such that
(a) one root is negative of the other root,
(b) one root is the reciprocal of the other root,
(c) one root is twice the other root.

Answer:
𝑟𝑥 2 + (𝑟 − 1)𝑥 + 2𝑟 + 3 = 0
𝑎 = 𝑟, 𝑏 = 𝑟 − 1, 𝑐 = 2𝑟 + 3
Let 𝛼 and 𝛽 are the roots of the quadratic equation.
𝑏 𝑟−1 1−𝑟 𝑐 2𝑟 + 3
𝛼+𝛽 =− =− = and 𝛼𝛽 = =
𝑎 𝑟 𝑟 𝑎 𝑟

(a) one root is negative of the other root, (c) one root is twice the other root,
⟹ The roots are 𝛾 and − 𝛾. ⟹ The roots are 𝛾 and 2𝛾.
Sum of roots: Sum of roots:
1−𝑟 1−𝑟
= 𝛾 + (−𝛾) 𝛾 + 2𝛾 =
𝑟 𝑟
1−𝑟 1−𝑟
=0 3𝛾 =
𝑟 𝑟
∴1−𝑟 =0 1−𝑟
𝛾= -----①
𝑟=1 3𝑟

Product of roots:
(b) one root is the reciprocal of the other root,
2𝑟 + 3
1 𝛾 × 2𝛾 = -----②
⟹ The roots are 𝛾 and . 𝑟
𝛾 Substitute ① into ②.
Product of roots: 1−𝑟 1−𝑟 2𝑟 + 3
2𝑟 + 3 1 ( ) × 2( )=
=𝛾×( ) 3𝑟 3𝑟 𝑟
𝑟 𝛾 2(1 − 𝑟)(1 − 𝑟) = 9𝑟(2𝑟 + 3)
2𝑟 + 3 2(1 − 2𝑟 + 𝑟 2 ) = 9𝑟(2𝑟 + 3)
=1
𝑟 2 − 4𝑟 + 2𝑟 2 = 18𝑟 2 + 27𝑟
2𝑟 + 3 = 𝑟
16𝑟 2 + 31𝑟 − 2 = 0
𝑟 = −3
(𝑟 + 2)(16𝑟 − 1) = 0
𝑟 + 2 = 0 16𝑟 − 1 = 0
1
𝑟 = −2 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑟 =
16
18 Quadratic Functions
6. One root of the equation 𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 𝑚 = 0 is three times the other root, find the value of the constant m
and the roots.

Answer:
𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 𝑚 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −8, 𝑐 = 𝑚
Let 𝛼 and 𝛽 are the roots of the quadratic equation.
𝑏 −8 𝑐 𝑚
𝛼+𝛽 =− =− = 8 and 𝛼𝛽 = = = 𝑚
𝑎 1 𝑎 1

One root of the equation 𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 𝑚 = 0 is three times the other root,

⟹ The roots are 𝛾 and 3𝛾.

Sum of roots: Product of roots:

𝛾 + 3𝛾 = 8 𝑚 = 2×6
4𝛾 = 8 𝑚 = 12
𝛾=2

3𝛾 = 3(2)

The roots are 2 and 6.

19 Quadratic Functions
7. The equation 𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 = 𝑘(𝑥 − 1) has non-zero roots where the difference between the roots is 2, find
the value of each root and the value of k,

Answer:
𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 = 𝑘(𝑥 − 1)
𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 = 𝑘𝑥 − 𝑘
𝑥 2 + (2 − 𝑘)𝑥 + 𝑘 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = 2 − 𝑘, 𝑐 = 𝑘
Let 𝛼 and 𝛽 are the roots of the quadratic equation.
𝑏 2−𝑘 𝑐 𝑘
𝛼+𝛽 =− =− = 2 − 𝑘 and 𝛼𝛽 = = = 𝑘
𝑎 1 𝑎 1

The difference between the roots is 2,

⟹ The roots are 𝛾 and 𝛾 + 2. or (𝛾 and 𝛾 − 2)

Sum of roots:
𝛾 + (𝛾 + 2) = 2 − 𝑘
2𝛾 = −𝑘
𝑘
𝛾=− -----①
2

Product of roots:
𝛾 × (𝛾 + 2) = 𝑘 -----②

Substitute ① into ②.
𝑘 𝑘
(− ) × [(− ) + 2] = 𝑘
2 2
𝑘2
−𝑘 =𝑘
4
𝑘2
− 2𝑘 = 0
4
𝑘
(𝑘 − 8) = 0
4
𝑘−8=0
𝑘=8
Note:
Substitute 𝑘 = 8 into ① can not get answer.
Substitute 𝑘 = 8 into ②.
𝛾 × (𝛾 + 2) = 8
𝛾 2 + 2𝛾 = 8
𝛾 2 + 2𝛾 − 8 = 0
(𝛾 − 2)(𝛾 + 4) = 0
𝛾 − 2 = 0 and 𝛾 + 4 = 0
𝛾=2 𝛾 = −4 (ignore)

𝛾+2=2+2=4

The roots are 2 and 4.

20 Quadratic Functions
8. The roots of the equation 𝑥 2 + 𝑝𝑥 + 27 = 0 are in the ratio of 1 : 3. Find the values of p.

Answer:

𝑥 2 + 𝑝𝑥 + 27 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = 𝑝, 𝑐 = 27
Let 𝛼 and 𝛽 are the roots of the quadratic equation.
𝑏 𝑝 𝑐 27
𝛼 + 𝛽 = − = − = −𝑝 and 𝛼𝛽 = = = 27
𝑎 1 𝑎 1

The roots of the equation 𝑥 2 + 𝑝𝑥 + 27 = 0 are in the ratio of 1 : 3,

⟹ The roots are 𝛾 and 3𝛾.

Sum of roots:
𝛾 + 3𝛾 = −𝑝
4𝛾 = −𝑝
𝑝
𝛾=− -----①
4

Product of roots:
𝛾 × 3𝛾 = 27 -----②
𝛾2 = 9
𝛾 = ±3

Substitute 𝛾 = −3 into ①.
𝑝
(−3) = −
4
𝑝 = 12

Substitute 𝛾 = 3 into ①.
𝑝
(3) = −
4
𝑝 = −12

∴ 𝑝 = −12, 12

21 Quadratic Functions
9. Given 3 and ℎ + 1 are the roots of the equation 𝑥 2 + (𝑘 − 1)𝑥 + 9 = 0, find the possible values
of h and k.

Answer:
Substitute 𝑥 = 3 into 𝑥 2 + (𝑘 − 1)𝑥 + 9 = 0.
(3)2 + (𝑘 − 1)(3) + 9 = 0
9 + 3𝑘 − 3 + 9 = 0
3𝑘 = −15
𝑘 = −5

Substitute 𝑘 = −5 into 𝑥 2 + (𝑘 − 1)𝑥 + 9 = 0.

𝑥 2 + [(−5) − 1]𝑥 + 9 = 0
𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 9 = 0

Substitute 𝑥 = ℎ + 1 into 𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 9 = 0.
(ℎ + 1)2 − 6(ℎ + 1) + 9 = 0
(ℎ2 + 2ℎ + 1) − 6ℎ − 6 + 9 = 0
ℎ2 − 4ℎ + 4 = 0
(ℎ − 2)2 = 0
ℎ−2=0
ℎ=2

22 Quadratic Functions
10. The two roots of the equation 𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0 are 𝛼 and 𝛼 + 3𝑑. Express c in terms of d.

Answer:
𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −8, 𝑐 = 𝑐
The two roots of the equation are 𝛼 and 𝛼 + 3𝑑.

Sum of roots:
−8
𝛼 + (𝛼 + 3𝑑) = −
1
2𝛼 + 3𝑑 = 8
2𝛼 + 3𝑑 = 8
2𝛼 = 8 − 3𝑑
8 − 3𝑑
𝛼= -----①
2

Product of roots:
𝑐
(𝛼)(𝛼 + 3𝑑) =
1
(𝛼)(𝛼 + 3𝑑) = 𝑐 -----②

Substitute ① into ②.
8 − 3𝑑 8 − 3𝑑
( ) [( + 3𝑑)] = 𝑐
2 2
8 − 3𝑑 8 − 3𝑑 + 6𝑑
( ) [( )] = 𝑐
2 2
8 − 3𝑑 8 + 3𝑑
( ) [( )] = 𝑐
2 2
(8 − 3𝑑)(8 + 3𝑑) = 4𝑐
64 − 9𝑑 2 = 4𝑐
4𝑐 = 64 − 9𝑑2
64 − 9𝑑 2
𝑐=
4

𝑐 27
𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝛼𝛽 = = = 27
𝑎 1

23 Quadratic Functions
11. Solve each of the following quadratic inequalities:
(a) 2𝑥 2 ≥ 𝑥 + 1 (b) (𝑥 − 3)2 ≤ 5 − 𝑥 (c) (1 − 𝑥)2 + 2𝑥 < 17

Answer:
(a) 2𝑥 2 ≥ 𝑥 + 1
2𝑥 2 − 𝑥 − 1 ≥ 0
(2𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 1) ≥ 0

Let (2𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 1) = 0

2𝑥 + 1 = 0 and 𝑥 − 1 = 0
1 1 1
𝑥=− 𝑥=1 −
2 2

1
𝑥≤− or 𝑥 ≥ 1
2

(b) (𝑥 − 3)2 ≤ 5 − 𝑥
𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 9 ≤ 5 − 𝑥
𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + 4 ≤ 0
(𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 − 4) ≤ 0

Let (𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 − 4) = 0
𝑥 − 1 = 0 and 𝑥 − 4 = 0
𝑥=1 𝑥=4 1 4

1≤𝑥≤4

(c) (1 − 𝑥)2 + 2𝑥 < 17

(1 − 2𝑥 + 𝑥 2 ) + 2𝑥 < 17
𝑥 2 − 16 < 0
(𝑥 + 4)(𝑥 − 4) < 0

Let (𝑥 + 4)(𝑥 − 4) = 0
𝑥 + 4 = 0 and 𝑥 − 4 = 0
𝑥 = −4 𝑥=4 −4 4

−4 < 𝑥 < 4

24 Quadratic Functions
12. Find the value of m and of n for each of the following quadratic inequalities:
(a) 𝑥 2 + 𝑚𝑥 < 𝑛 which is satisfied by −3 < 𝑥 < 4.
(b) 2𝑥 2 + 𝑚 > 𝑛𝑥 which is satisfied by 𝑥 < −2 or 𝑥 > 5.

Answer:
(a) Let 𝑥 2 + 𝑚𝑥 = 𝑛 -----① (b) Let 2𝑥 2 + 𝑚 = 𝑛𝑥 -----①
Substitute 𝑥 = −3 into ①. Substitute 𝑥 = −2 into ①.
(−3)2 + 𝑚(−3) = 𝑛 2(−2)2 + 𝑚 = 𝑛(−2)
9 − 3𝑚 = 𝑛 8 + 𝑚 = −2𝑛
𝑛 = 9 − 3𝑚 -----② 𝑚 = −2𝑛 − 8 -----②

Substitute 𝑥 = 4 into ①. Substitute 𝑥 = 5 into ①.

(4)2 + 𝑚(4) = 𝑛 2(5)2 + 𝑚 = 𝑛(5)
16 + 4𝑚 = 𝑛 -----③ 50 + 𝑚 = 5𝑛 -----③

Substitute ② into ③. Substitute ② into ③.

16 + 4𝑚 = 9 − 3𝑚 50 + (−2𝑛 − 8) = 5𝑛
7𝑚 = −7 7𝑛 = 42
𝑚 = −1 𝑛=6

Substitute 𝑚 = −1 into ②. Substitute 𝑛 = 6 into ②.

𝑛 = 9 − 3(−1) 𝑚 = −2(6) − 8
𝑛 = 12 𝑛 = −20

13. Given y = 2𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 12 and y < 0, if 2 < 𝑥 < 𝑎, find the value of a and of b.

Answer:
Let 2𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 12 = 0 -----①
Substitute 𝑥 = 2 into ①.
2(2)2 + 𝑏(2) + 12 = 0
8 + 2𝑏 + 12 = 0
2𝑏 = −20
𝑏 = −10

Substitute 𝑥 = 𝑎 and 𝑏 = −10 into ①.

2(𝑎)2 + (−10)(𝑎) + 12 = 0
2𝑎2 − 10𝑎 + 12 = 0
𝑎2 − 5𝑎 + 6 = 0
(𝑎 − 2)(𝑎 − 3) = 0
𝑎 − 2 = 0 and 𝑎 − 3 = 0
𝑎=2 𝑎=3
∴𝑎=3 ∵2<𝑥

25 Quadratic Functions
Self Practice 2.4

1. Find the discriminant and determine the types of roots for each of the following quadratic equation:
(a) 𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 1 = 0 (b) 𝑥 2 = 8(𝑥 − 2) (c) 5𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 6 = 0
(d) −3𝑥 2 + 7𝑥 + 5 = 0 (e) −𝑥 2 + 10𝑥 − 25 = 0 (f) (2𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 + 3) = 0

Answer:
(a) 𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 1 = 0 (d) −3𝑥 2 + 7𝑥 + 5 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = 4, 𝑐 = 1 𝑎 = −3, 𝑏 = 7, 𝑐 = 5
Discriminant = 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 Discriminant = 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
= (4)2 − 4(1)(1) = (7)2 − 4(−3)(5)
= 12 = 109
>0 >0
two different real roots. two different real roots.

(b) 𝑥 2 = 8(𝑥 − 2) (e) −𝑥 2 + 10𝑥 − 25 = 0

𝑥 2 = 8𝑥 − 16 𝑎 = −1, 𝑏 = 10, 𝑐 = −25
𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 16 = 0 Discriminant = 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = 8, 𝑐 = 16 = (10)2 − 4(−1)(−25)
Discriminant = 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 =0
= (8)2 − 4(1)(16) two equal real roots.
=0
two equal real roots.
(f) (2𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 + 3) = 0
2𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 − 3 = 0
(c) 5𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 6 = 0 𝑎 = 2, 𝑏 = 5, 𝑐 = −3
𝑎 = 5, 𝑏 = 4, 𝑐 = 6 Discriminant = 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
Discriminant = 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (5)2 − 4(2)(−3)
= (4)2 − 4(5)(6) = 49
= −104  two different real roots.
<0
no real roots.

26 Quadratic Functions
Self Practice 2.5

1. Find the values or range of values of p such that the equation

(a) 9𝑥 2 + 𝑝 + 1 = 4𝑝𝑥 has two equal roots,
(b) 𝑥 2 + (2𝑥 + 3)𝑥 = 𝑝 has two real and different roots,
(c) 𝑥 2 + 2𝑝𝑥 + (𝑝 − 1)(𝑝 − 3) = 0 has no real roots.

Answer:
(a) 9𝑥 2 + 𝑝 + 1 = 4𝑝𝑥
9𝑥 2 − 4𝑝𝑥 + 𝑝 + 1 = 0
𝑎 = 9, 𝑏 = −4𝑝, 𝑐 =𝑝+1
2
two equal roots, 𝑏 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0
(−4𝑝)2 − 4(9)(𝑝 + 1) = 0
16𝑝2 − 36𝑝 − 36 = 0
4𝑝2 − 9𝑝 − 9 = 0
(4𝑝 + 3)(𝑝 − 3) = 0
4𝑝 + 3 = 0 or 𝑝 − 3 = 0
3
𝑝=− 𝑝=3
4

(b) 𝑥 2 + (2𝑥 + 3)𝑥 = 𝑝

𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 = 𝑝
3𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 − 𝑝 = 0
𝑎 = 3, 𝑏 = 3, 𝑐 = −𝑝
two real and different roots, 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0
(3)2 − 4(3)(−𝑝) > 0
9 + 12𝑝 > 0
12𝑝 > −9
4𝑝 > −3
3
𝑝>−
4

(c) 𝑥 2 + 2𝑝𝑥 + (𝑝 − 1)(𝑝 − 3) = 0

𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = 2𝑝, 𝑐 = (𝑝 − 1)(𝑝 − 3)
2
no real roots, 𝑏 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0
(2𝑝)2 − 4(1)(𝑝 − 1)(𝑝 − 3) < 0
4𝑝2 − 4(𝑝2 − 4𝑝 + 3) < 0
4𝑝2 − 4𝑝2 + 16𝑝 − 12 < 0
16𝑝 < 12
4𝑝 < 3
3
𝑝<
4

27 Quadratic Functions
2. Find the range of values of k if the equation 𝑥 2 + 𝑘 = 𝑘𝑥 − 3 has two real and different roots.
State the values of k if the equation has two real and equal roots.

Answer:
𝑥 2 + 𝑘 = 𝑘𝑥 − 3
𝑥 2 − 𝑘𝑥 + 𝑘 + 3 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −𝑘, 𝑐 =𝑘+3

Two real and different roots, 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0

(−𝑘)2 − 4(1)(𝑘 + 3) > 0
𝑘 2 − 4𝑘 − 12 > 0
(𝑘 + 2)(𝑘 − 6) > 0

Let (𝑘 + 2)(𝑘 − 6) = 0
𝑘 + 2 = 0 or 𝑘 − 6 = 0 -2 6
𝑘 = −2 𝑘=6
𝑘 < −2 𝑜𝑟 𝑘 > 6

Two real and equal roots, 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0

(−𝑘)2 − 4(1)(𝑘 + 3) = 0
𝑘 2 − 4𝑘 − 12 = 0
(𝑘 + 2)(𝑘 − 6) = 0
𝑘 + 2 = 0 or 𝑘 − 6 = 0
𝑘 = −2 𝑘=6

28 Quadratic Functions
3. The quadratic equation 𝑥 2 + ℎ𝑥 + 𝑘 = 0 has roots of −2 and 6, find
(a) the value of h and of k,
(b) the range of values of c such that the equation 𝑥 2 + ℎ𝑥 + 𝑘 = 𝑐 has no real roots.

Answer:
(a) Substitute 𝑥 = −2 into 𝑥 2 + ℎ𝑥 + 𝑘 = 0.
(−2)2 + ℎ(−2) + 𝑘 = 0
4 − 2ℎ + 𝑘 = 0
𝑘 = 2ℎ − 4 -----①

Substitute 𝑥 = 6 into 𝑥 2 + ℎ𝑥 + 𝑘 = 0.
(6)2 + ℎ(6) + 𝑘 = 0
36 + 6ℎ + 𝑘 = 0 -----②

Substitute ① into ②.
36 + 6ℎ + (2ℎ − 4) = 0
8ℎ = −32
ℎ = −4

Substitute ℎ = −4 into ①.
𝑘 = 2(−4) − 4
𝑘 = −12

(b) Substitute ℎ = −4 and 𝑘 = −12 into 𝑥 2 + ℎ𝑥 + 𝑘 = 𝑐.

𝑥 2 + (−4)𝑥 + (−12) = 𝑐
𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 𝑐 − 12 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −4, 𝑐 = −𝑐 − 12

No real roots, 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0

(−4)2 − 4(1)(−𝑐 − 12) < 0
16 + 4𝑐 + 48 < 0
4𝑐 < −64
𝑐 < −16

29 Quadratic Functions
4. The equation ℎ𝑥 2 + 3ℎ𝑥 + ℎ + 𝑘 = 0, where ℎ ≠ 0, has two real and equal roots. Express k in terms of h.

Answer:
ℎ𝑥 2 + 3ℎ𝑥 + ℎ + 𝑘 = 0
𝑎 = ℎ, 𝑏 = 3ℎ, 𝑐 =ℎ+𝑘

Two real and equal roots, 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0

(3ℎ)2 − 4(ℎ)(ℎ + 𝑘) = 0
9ℎ2 − 4ℎ2 − 4ℎ𝑘 = 0
5ℎ2 − 4ℎ𝑘 = 0
4ℎ𝑘 = 5ℎ2
4𝑘 = 5ℎ
5ℎ
𝑘=
4

5. Given the quadratic equation 𝑎𝑥 2 − 5𝑏𝑥 + 4𝑎 = 0, where a and b are constants, has two real and equal
roots, find a : b.

Answer:
𝑎𝑥 2 − 5𝑏𝑥 + 4𝑎 = 0
𝑎 = 𝑎, 𝑏 = −5𝑏, 𝑐 = 4𝑎

Two real and equal roots, 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0

(−5𝑏)2 − 4(𝑎)(4𝑎) = 0
25𝑏 2 − 16𝑎2 = 0
16𝑎2 = 25𝑏 2
𝑎2 25
=
𝑏 2 16
𝑎 2 5 2
=( )
𝑏 4
𝑎 5
=
𝑏 4
𝑎: 𝑏 = 5: 4

30 Quadratic Functions
Intensive Practice 2.2

1. Determine the types of roots for the following quadratic equations.

(a) 𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 16 = 0 (b) (𝑥 − 2)2 = 3 (c) 2𝑥 2 + 𝑥 + 4 = 0

Answer:
(a) 𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 16 = 0 (c) 2𝑥 2 + 𝑥 + 4 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −8, 𝑐 = 16 𝑎 = 2, 𝑏 = 1, 𝑐 = 4

𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (−8)2 − 4(1)(16) 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (1)2 − 4(2)(4)

=0 = −31
 two real equal roots. <0
 no real roots.

(b) (𝑥 − 2)2 = 3
𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 4 = 3
𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 1 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −4, 𝑐 = 1

𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (−4)2 − 4(1)(1)

= 12
>0
 two different real roots.

2. The following quadratic equations have two real and equal roots. Find the values of k.
(a) 𝑥 2 + 𝑘𝑥 = 2𝑥 − 9 (b) 𝑘𝑥 2 + (2𝑘 + 1)𝑥 + 𝑘 − 1 = 0

Answer:
(a) 𝑥 2 + 𝑘𝑥 = 2𝑥 − 9 (b) 𝑘𝑥 2 + (2𝑘 + 1)𝑥 + 𝑘 − 1 = 0
𝑥 2 + 𝑘𝑥 − 2𝑥 + 9 = 0 𝑎 = 𝑘, 𝑏 = 2𝑘 + 1, 𝑐 =𝑘−1
𝑥 2 + (𝑘 − 2)𝑥 + 9 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = 𝑘 − 2, 𝑐 = 9 Two real and equal roots, 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0
(2𝑘 + 1)2 − 4(𝑘)(𝑘 − 1) = 0
Two real and equal roots, 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0 (4𝑘 2 + 4𝑘 + 1) − 4𝑘 2 + 4𝑘 = 0
(𝑘 − 2)2 − 4(1)(9) = 0 8𝑘 + 1 = 0
(𝑘 2 − 4𝑘 + 4) − 36 = 0 8𝑘 = −1
𝑘 2 − 4𝑘 − 32 = 0 1
𝑘=−
(𝑘 + 4)(𝑘 − 8) = 0 8
𝑘 + 4 = 0 or 𝑘 − 8 = 0
𝑘 = −4 𝑘=8

31 Quadratic Functions
3. The following quadratic equations have two real and different roots. Find the range of values of r.
(a) 𝑥(𝑥 + 1) = 𝑟𝑥 − 4 (b) 𝑥 2 + 𝑥 = 2𝑟𝑥 − 𝑟 2

Answer:
(a) 𝑥(𝑥 + 1) = 𝑟𝑥 − 4
𝑥 2 + 𝑥 = 𝑟𝑥 − 4
𝑥 2 + 𝑥 − 𝑟𝑥 + 4 = 0
𝑥 2 + (1 − 𝑟)𝑥 + 4 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = 1 − 𝑟, 𝑐=4

Two real and different roots, 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0

(1 − 𝑟)2 − 4(1)(4) > 0
(1 − 2𝑟 + 𝑟 2 ) − 16 > 0
𝑟 2 − 2𝑟 − 15 > 0
(𝑟 + 3)(𝑟 − 5) > 0

Let (𝑟 + 3)(𝑟 − 5) = 0
𝑟 + 3 = 0 or 𝑟 − 5 = 0
𝑟 = −3 𝑟=5 −3 5

𝑟 < −3 or 𝑟 > 5

(b) 𝑥 2 + 𝑥 = 2𝑟𝑥 − 𝑟 2
𝑥 2 + 𝑥 − 2𝑟𝑥 + 𝑟 2 = 0
𝑥 2 + (1 − 2𝑟)𝑥 + 𝑟 2 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = 1 − 2𝑟, 𝑐 = 𝑟2

Two real and different roots, 𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0

(1 − 2𝑟)2 − 4(1)(𝑟 2 ) > 0
(1 − 4𝑟 + 4𝑟 2 ) − 4𝑟 2 > 0
1 − 4𝑟 > 0
4𝑟 < 1
1
𝑟<
4

32 Quadratic Functions
4. Find the range of values of p if the following equations have no real roots.
(a) (1 − 𝑝)𝑥 2 + 5 = 2𝑥 (b) 4𝑝𝑥 2 + (4𝑝 + 1)𝑥 + 𝑝 − 1 = 0

Answer:
(a) (1 − 𝑝)𝑥 2 + 5 = 2𝑥 (b) 4𝑝𝑥 2 + (4𝑝 + 1)𝑥 + 𝑝 − 1 = 0
(1 − 𝑝)𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 + 5 = 0 𝑎 = 4𝑝, 𝑏 = 4𝑝 + 1, 𝑐 =𝑝−1
𝑎 = 1 − 𝑝, 𝑏 = −2, 𝑐=5
No real roots, 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0
No real roots, 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0 (4𝑝 + 1)2 − 4(4𝑝)(𝑝 − 1) < 0
(−2)2 − 4(1 − 𝑝)(5) < 0 (16𝑝2 + 8𝑝 + 1) − 16𝑝2 + 16𝑝 < 0
4 − 20 + 20𝑝 < 0 24𝑝 < −1
20𝑝 < 16 1
𝑝<−
5𝑝 < 4 24
4
𝑝<
5

5. The equation 𝑘𝑥 2 − 10𝑥 + 6𝑘 = 5, where k is a constant, has two real and equal roots.
(a) Find the values of k.
(b) Hence, find the roots of the equation by using the smallest value of k obtained in (a).

Answer:
(a) 𝑘𝑥 2 − 10𝑥 + 6𝑘 = 5 (b) 5
The smallest value of k is −
𝑘𝑥 2 − 10𝑥 + 6𝑘 − 5 = 0 3
𝑎 = 𝑘, 𝑏 = −10, 𝑐 = 6𝑘 − 5
5 5
(− ) 𝑥 2 − 10𝑥 + 6 (− ) = 5
3 3
Two real and equal roots, 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0 5
(−10)2 − 4(𝑘)(6𝑘 − 5) = 0 − 𝑥 2 − 10𝑥 − 10 = 5
3
100 − 24𝑘 2 + 20𝑘 = 0 5𝑥 2 + 30𝑥 + 30 = −15
25 − 6𝑘 2 + 5𝑘 = 0 5𝑥 2 + 30𝑥 + 45 = 0
6𝑘 2 − 5𝑘 − 25 = 0 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 9 = 0
(3𝑘 + 5)(2𝑘 − 5) = 0 (𝑥 + 3)2 = 0
3𝑘 + 5 = 0 or 2𝑘 + 5 = 0 𝑥+3=0
5 5
𝑘=− 𝑘= 𝑥 = −3
3 2

33 Quadratic Functions
6. The quadratic equation 𝑥(𝑥 − 4) + 2𝑛 = 𝑚 where m and n are constants, has two real and equal roots.
Express m in terms of n.

Answer:
𝑥(𝑥 − 4) + 2𝑛 = 𝑚
𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 2𝑛 − 𝑚 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −4, 𝑐 = 2𝑛 − 𝑚

Two real and equal roots, 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0

(−4)2 − 4(1)(2𝑛 − 𝑚) = 0
16 − 8𝑛 + 4𝑚 = 0
4 − 2𝑛 + 𝑚 = 0
𝑚 = 2𝑛 − 4

7. The quadratic equation 𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0 where b and c are positive integers, has a discriminant of 16 and
𝑏 − 𝑐 = −4. Find
(a) the possible values of b and c,
(b) the corresponding roots of the equations.

Answer:
(a) 𝑏 − 𝑐 = −4 (b) Substitute 𝑏 = 8 and 𝑐 = 12 into 𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0.
𝑐 =𝑏+4 -----① 𝑥 2 + 8𝑥 + 12 = 0
(𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 + 6) = 0
𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0 𝑥 + 2 = 0 or 𝑥 + 6 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = 𝑏, 𝑐 = 𝑐 𝑥 = −2 𝑥 = −6

discriminant of 16,
𝑏2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 16
(𝑏)2 − 4(1)(𝑐) = 16
𝑏 2 − 4𝑐 = 16 -----②

Substitute ① into ②.
𝑏 2 − 4(𝑏 + 4) = 16
𝑏 2 − 4𝑏 − 16 = 16
𝑏 2 − 4𝑏 − 32 = 0
(𝑏 − 8)(𝑏 + 4) = 0
𝑏 − 8 = 0 or 𝑏 + 4 = 0
𝑏=8 𝑏 = −4 (ignore) (+𝑣𝑒 integer)
Substitute 𝑏 = 8 into ①.
𝑐 = (8) + 4
𝑐 = 12

34 Quadratic Functions
8. The quadratic equation 2𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0 where c is a positive integer, has no real roots.
(a) Find two possible values of c, that is 𝑐1, and 𝑐2 .
1
(b) Base on the values of c1 , and c2 in (a), does the equation 2𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + (𝑐1 + 𝑐2 ) = 0 have two
2
real roots? Explain.

Answer:
(a) 2𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0
𝑎 = 2, 𝑏 = −5, 𝑐 = 𝑐

No real roots, 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0

(−5)2 − 4(2)(𝑐) < 0
25 − 8𝑐 < 0
8𝑐 > 25
25
𝑐>
8
𝑐 > 3.125
∴ 𝑐1 = 4, and 𝑐2 = 5

(b) 1
Substitute 𝑐1 = 4 and 𝑐2 = 5 into 2𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + (𝑐1 + 𝑐2 ) = 0.
2
1
2𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + (4 + 5) = 0
2
9
2𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + = 0
2
2
4𝑥 − 10𝑥 + 9 = 0
𝑎 = 4, 𝑏 = −10, 𝑐 = 9

𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (−10)2 − 4(4)(9)

= 100 − 144
= −44
<0
Explaination: The equation does not have two real roots.

35 Quadratic Functions
Self Practice 2.6
f(x)
1. The diagram on the right shows the graph for 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 2 + 𝑥 + 6,
where 𝑎 = −1, 𝑏 = 1 and 𝑐 = 6. Sketch the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) formed
when the following values change. 6
𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 2 + 𝑥 + 6
(a) The value of a changes to
1
(i) − 3 (ii) −
4
(b) The value of b changes to −1, x
−2 0 3
(c) The value of c changes to −2.
Make a generalisation from the changes in the shape and position of the graphs obtained.

Answer:
(a) (i) (a) (ii)

The width of the graph decreases, The width of the graph increases,
y-intercept does not change. y-intercept does not change.

(b) (c)

The vertex is on the left side of y-axis. The graph moves 8 units downwards.
All points are changed except for The shape of the graph does not
y-intercept. The shape of the graph change.
does not change.

36 Quadratic Functions
Self Practice 2.7

1. Determine the types of roots for each of the following quadratic function. Sketch the graph and make
generalisation on the position of the graph on the x-axis.
2
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = −3𝑥 + 6𝑥 − 3 (b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 3 (c) 𝑓(𝑥) = 4𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 5

Answer:
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = −3𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 − 3
𝑎 = −3, 𝑏 = 6, 𝑐 = −3
 x

Discriminant = 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
= (6)2 − 4(−3)(−3)
=0
two equal real roots.

The quadratic function has two equal real roots. The graph is a parabola that passes through the
maximum point and touches the x-axis at a point.

(b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 3
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = 2, 𝑐 = −3

Discriminant = 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
= (2)2 − 4(1)(−3)
= 16
>0 x

two equal real roots.

The quadratic function has two different real roots. The graph is a parabola that passes through
the minimum point and intercept the x-axis at two points.

(b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 4𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 5
𝑎 = 4, 𝑏 = −8, 𝑐 = 5

Discriminant = 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
= (−8)2 − 4(4)(5)
= −16 
<0 x

no real roots.

The quadratic function does not have real roots. The graph is a parabola that passes through the
minimum point and above the x-axis.

37 Quadratic Functions
2. Find the possible values of h if the graphs of the following quadratic functions touch the x-axis at only
one point.
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 2ℎ𝑥 + 2 + ℎ (b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − (ℎ + 3)𝑥 + 3ℎ + 1

Answer:
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 2ℎ𝑥 + 2 + ℎ (b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − (ℎ + 3)𝑥 + 3ℎ + 1
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −2ℎ, 𝑐 = 2 + ℎ 𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −(ℎ + 3), 𝑐 = 3ℎ + 1

Touch the x-axis at only one point, Touch the x-axis at only one point,
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0
(−2ℎ)2 − 4(1)(2 + ℎ) = 0 (ℎ + 3)2 − 4(1)(3ℎ + 1) = 0
4ℎ2 − 8 − 4ℎ = 0 (ℎ2 + 6ℎ + 9) − 12ℎ − 4 = 0
ℎ2 − 2 − ℎ = 0 ℎ2 − 6ℎ + 5 = 0
ℎ2 − ℎ − 2 = 0 (ℎ − 1)(ℎ − 5) = 0
(ℎ + 1)(ℎ − 2) = 0 ℎ − 1 = 0 or ℎ − 5 = 0
ℎ + 1 = 0 or ℎ − 2 = 0 ℎ=1 ℎ=5
ℎ = −1 ℎ=2

3. Find the range of values of q if the graph of the following quadratic functions intersect the x-axis at two
points.
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 5𝑥 2 − (𝑞𝑥 + 4)𝑥 − 2 (b) 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑞 + 2)𝑥 2 + 𝑞(1 − 2𝑥) − 5

Answer:
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 5𝑥 2 − (𝑞𝑥 + 4)𝑥 − 2 (b) 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑞 + 2)𝑥 2 + 𝑞(1 − 2𝑥) − 5
= 5𝑥 2 − (𝑞𝑥 2 + 4𝑥) − 2 = (𝑞 + 2)𝑥 2 + 𝑞 − 2𝑞𝑥 − 5
= (5−𝑞)𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 2 = (𝑞 + 2)𝑥 2 − 2𝑞𝑥 + 𝑞 − 5

𝑎 = 5 − 𝑞, 𝑏 = −4, 𝑐 = −2 𝑎 = 𝑞 + 2, 𝑏 = −2𝑞, 𝑐 =𝑞−5

Intersect the x-axis at two points, Intersect the x-axis at two points,
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0
(−4)2 − 4(5 − 𝑞)(−2) > 0 (−2𝑞)2 − 4(𝑞 + 2)(𝑞 − 5) > 0
16 − (−40 + 8𝑞) > 0 4𝑞 2 − 4(𝑞 2 − 3𝑞 − 10) > 0
16 + 40 − 8𝑞 > 0 4𝑞 2 − 4𝑞 2 + 12𝑞 + 40 > 0
8𝑞 < 56 12𝑞 > −40
𝑞<7 3𝑞 > −10
10
𝑞>−
3

38 Quadratic Functions
4. Find the range of values of r if the graphs of the following quadratic functions do not intersect the x-axis.
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑟𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 − 6 (b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑟𝑥 2 + (2𝑟 + 4)𝑥 + 𝑟 + 7

Answer:
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑟𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 − 6
𝑎 = 𝑟, 𝑏 = 4, 𝑐 = −6

Do not intersect the x-axis,

𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0
(4)2 − 4(𝑟)(−6) < 0
16 + 24𝑟 < 0
2 + 3𝑟 < 0
3𝑟 < −2
2
𝑟<−
3

(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑟𝑥 2 + (2𝑟 + 4)𝑥 + 𝑟 + 7

𝑎 = 𝑟, 𝑏 = 2𝑟 + 4, 𝑐 =𝑟+7

Do not intersect the x-axis,

𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0
(2𝑟 + 4)2 − 4(𝑟)(𝑟 + 7) < 0
(4𝑟 2 + 16𝑟 + 16) − (4𝑟 2 + 28𝑟) < 0
16 − 12𝑟 < 0
3𝑟 > 4
4
𝑟>
3

39 Quadratic Functions
Self Practice 2.8

1. Given 𝑓(𝑥) = 2(𝑥 − 3)2 − 8 = 𝑎(𝑥 − 𝑝)(𝑥 − 𝑞) for all values of x, find the values of the constants a, p
and q where p < q.

Answer:
𝑓(𝑥) = 2(𝑥 − 3)2 − 8
= 2[(𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 9)] − 8
= [2𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 18] − 8
= 2𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 + 10
= 2(𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 5)
= 2(𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 − 5)

Compare with 𝑎(𝑥 − 𝑝)(𝑥 − 𝑞).

𝑎 = 2, 𝑝 = 1, 𝑞 = 5

2. Express each of the following vertex form into general form and intercept form.
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 − 2)2 − 1 (b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 9 − (2𝑥 − 1)2 (c) 𝑓(𝑥) = 2(𝑥 + 1)2 − 18

Answer:
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 − 2)2 − 1
= (𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 4) − 1
= 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 3 (General form)
= (𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 − 3) (Intercept form)

(b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 9 − (2𝑥 − 1)2

= 9 − (4𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 1)
= −4𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 8 (General form)
= −4(𝑥 2 − 𝑥 − 2)
= −4(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 2) (Intercept form)

(c) 𝑓(𝑥) = 2(𝑥 + 1)2 − 18

= 2(𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 + 1) − 18
= 2𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 − 16 (General form)
= 2(𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 8)
= 2(𝑥 + 4)(𝑥 − 2) (Intercept form)

40 Quadratic Functions
 1
3. Find the vertex of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = − (𝑥 + 4)2 − 5 and convert it into general form.
2

Answer:
1
1 𝑓(𝑥) = − (𝑥 + 4)2 − 5
𝑓(𝑥) = − (𝑥 + 4)2 − 5 2
2 1 2
= − (𝑥 + 8𝑥 + 16) − 5
2
𝑥+4=0 1
= (− 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 8) − 5
𝑥 = −4 2
The vertex is (−4, −5). 1 2
= − 𝑥 − 4𝑥 − 13 (General form)
2

f (x)
4. The diagram on the right shows the graph of quadratic function
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎(𝑥 + ℎ)2 + 𝑘 where a, h and k are constants. (−2, 16)

Given (−2,16) is the maximum point of the graph.
(a) State the values of a, h and k. 12 
(b) Hence, express the function in general form, f (x) = 𝑎(𝑥 + ℎ)2 + 𝑘
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 and intercept form,
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎(𝑥 − 𝑝)(𝑥 − 𝑞).
x
0
Answer:
(a) (−2,16) is the maximum point. (b) 𝑓(𝑥) = −(𝑥 + 2)2 + 16
𝑥+ℎ = 0 = −(𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 4) + 16
−2 + ℎ = 0 = −𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 12 (General form)
ℎ=2 = −(𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 − 12)
= −(𝑥 + 6)(𝑥 − 2) (Intercept form)
𝑘 = 16

∴ 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎(𝑥 + 2)2 + 16

Point (0, 12):

Substitute 𝑥 = 0 and 𝑓(𝑥) = 12,
into 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎(𝑥 + 2)2 + 16.
12 = 𝑎(0 + 2)2 + 16
12 = 4𝑎 + 16
4𝑎 = −4
𝑎 = −1

∴ 𝑓(𝑥) = −(𝑥 + 2)2 + 16

41 Quadratic Functions
5. Express each of the following in the vertex form, 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎(𝑥 + ℎ)2 + 𝑘, where a, h and k are constants.
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 𝑥 − 6 (b) 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 + 4 (c) 𝑓(𝑥) = −2𝑥 2 − 𝑥 + 6
(d) 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 − 9 (e) 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 + 2)(6 − 𝑥) (f) 𝑓(𝑥) = 2(𝑥 + 4)(𝑥 − 2)

Answer:
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 𝑥 − 6 (d) 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 − 9

−1 2 −1 2 2
= 𝑥2 − 𝑥 + ( ) − ( ) − 6 = 3 (𝑥 2 − 𝑥) − 9
2 2 3
1 2
1 2 2 2 2
2 − −
= (𝑥 − ) − ( ) − 6
2 4 = 3 𝑥 2 − 𝑥 + ( 3) − ( 3) − 9
3 2 2
2
1 25
= (𝑥 − ) −
2 4 1 2 1
= 3 (𝑥 − ) − ( ) − 9
3 9
1 2 28
(b) 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 + 4 = 3 (𝑥 − ) −
3 3
= −(𝑥 2 + 2𝑥) + 4
2
2 2 2 2
= − 𝑥 + 2𝑥 + ( ) − ( ) + 4
2 2 (e) 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 + 2)(6 − 𝑥)
= −[(𝑥 + 1)2 − (1)] + 4
= 6𝑥 − 𝑥 2 + 12 − 2𝑥
= −(𝑥 + 1)2 + 5
= −𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 12
= −(𝑥 2 − 4𝑥) + 12
2
−4 2 −4 2
(c) 𝑓(𝑥) = −2𝑥 2 − 𝑥 + 6 = − 𝑥 − 4𝑥 + ( ) − ( ) + 12
2 2
1 = −[(𝑥 − 2)2 − (4)] + 12
= −2 (𝑥 2 + 𝑥) + 6
2 = −(𝑥 − 2)2 + 16
1 2 1 2
1
= −2 𝑥 2 + 𝑥 + ( 2 ) − ( 2 ) + 6
2 2 2
(f) 𝑓(𝑥) = 2(𝑥 + 4)(𝑥 − 2)
1 2 1
= −2 (𝑥 + ) − ( ) + 6 = 2(𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 8)
4 16
2 2
2 2 2 2
1 49 = 2 𝑥 + 2𝑥 + ( ) − ( ) − 8
= −2 (𝑥 + ) + 2 2
4 8 2
= 2[(𝑥 + 1) − (1) − 8]
= 2[(𝑥 + 1)2 − 9]
= 2(𝑥 + 1)2 − 18

42 Quadratic Functions
Self Practice 2.9

1. The diagram on the right shows the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = −3(𝑥 − 2)2 + 4
where 𝑎 = −3, ℎ = 2 and 𝑘 = 4. f (x)
(a) Determine the coordinate of maximum point and the equation of
the axis of symmetry.
(b) Make generalisation on the shape and position of the graph when 4 
the following values change. Hence, sketch the graphs. f (x) = −3(𝑥 − 2)2 + 4
(i) The value of a changes to −10.
(ii) The value of h changes to 5.
x
(iii) The value of k changes to −2. 0 2

Answer:
(a) The coordinate of maximum point is (2, 4).
The equation of the axis of symmetry is 𝑥 = 2.

(b) (i) When a changes from −3 to −10, the width of the graph decreases. The axis of symmetry
𝑥 = 2 and the maximum value 4 does not change.

43 Quadratic Functions
(b) (ii) When h changes from 2 to 5, the graph with the same shape moves horizontally 3 units to
the right. The equation of the axis of symmetry becomrs 𝑥 = 5 and the maximum value
does not change which is 4.

(b) (iii) When k changes from 4 to −2, the graph with the same shape
moves vertically 6 units downwards..The maximum value
becomes −2 and the axis of symmetry does not change.

44 Quadratic Functions
2. The diagram on the right shows the graph of function f(x)
𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 − 3)2 + 2𝑘, where k is a constant. Given (h, −6) is the f (x) = (𝑥 − 3)2 + 2𝑘
minimum point of the graph.
(a) State the values of h, k and p.
(b) If the graph moves 2 units to the right, determine the equation p
of the axis of symmetry for the curve.
(c) If the graph moves 5 units upwards, determine the minimum x
value. 0

(h, −6)
Answer:
(a) Given 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 − 3)2 + 2𝑘 and (a) 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 − 3)2 − 6 -----①
minimum point is (h, −6).
𝑥−3=0 2𝑘 = −6 Point P(0, p):
ℎ−3=0 𝑘 = −3 Substitute 𝑥 = 0 and 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑝 into ①.
ℎ=3 𝑝 = (0 − 3)2 − 6
∴ 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 − 3)2 + 2(−3) 𝑝 =9−6
= (𝑥 − 3)2 − 6 𝑝=3

(b) The equation of the axis of symmetry for the curve is

𝑥 =ℎ+2
𝑥 = 3+2
𝑥=5

(c) The minimum value = −6 + 5 = −1

3. Compare the graph of each of the following quadratic functions to the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 with its vertex
at (0,0).
1 1
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 − 6)2 (b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 3(𝑥 − 1)2 + 5 (c) 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 + 1)2 − 4
2 4

Answer:
(a) The graph moves 6 units (b) The graph moves 1 unit (c) The graph moves 1 unit
to the right and the width to the right and 5 units to the left and 4 uints
of the graph increases. upwards and the width downwards and the
The equation of the axis of the graph decreases. width of the graph
of symmetry becomes The equation of the axis increases. The equation
𝑥 = 6 and the minimum of symmetry becomes of the axis of symmetry
value does not change, 𝑥 = 1 and the minimum becomes 𝑥 = −1 and the
which is 0. value becomes 5. minimum value becomes
−4.

45 Quadratic Functions
Self Practice 2.10

1. Sketch the graphs of the following quadratic functions,

(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 − 1)2 − 4 (b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 2(𝑥 + 2)2 − 2 (c) 𝑓(𝑥) = 9 − (𝑥 − 2)2
(d) 𝑓(𝑥) = −2(𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 − 3) (e) 𝑓(𝑥) = −(𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 + 5) (f) 𝑓(𝑥) = 2(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 3)
(g) 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 5 (h) 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 − 2 (i) 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 12

Answer:
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 − 1)2 − 4
= (𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 + 1) − 4
= 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 − 3
= (𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 3)

𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −2, 𝑐 = −3
(i) 𝑎 > 0, so 𝑓(𝑥) has a minimum point
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (−2)2 − 4(1)(−3)
= 4 + 12
= 16(> 0)
The curve intersects the x-axis at two different points.

(ii) Minimum point is (1, −4) and the equation of the axis of symmetry, 𝑥 = 1.

(iii) 𝑓(𝑥) = 0
(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 3) = 0
𝑥 + 1 = 0 or 𝑥 − 3 = 0
𝑥 = −1 𝑥=3
The intersection on the x-axis are 𝑥 = −1 and 𝑥 = 3.

(iv) 𝑓(0) = (0 − 1)2 − 4

=1−4
= −3
The graph intersects the y-axis at (0, −3).

(v) The curve is sketched as shown in the diagram below.

𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 − 1)2 − 4

x
−1 0 3

−3

(1, −4)

46 Quadratic Functions
(b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 2(𝑥 + 2)2 − 2
= 2(𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 4) − 2
= 2𝑥 2 + 8𝑥 + 6
= 2(𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 3)
= 2(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 + 3)

𝑎 = 2, 𝑏 = 8, 𝑐 = 6
(i) 𝑎 > 0, so 𝑓(𝑥) has a minimum point
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (8)2 − 4(2)(6)
= 64 − 48
= 16(> 0)
The curve intersects the x-axis at two different points.

(ii) Minimum point is (−2, −2) and the equation of the axis of symmetry, 𝑥 = −2.

(iii) 𝑓(𝑥) = 0
2(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 + 3) = 0
𝑥 + 1 = 0 or 𝑥 + 3 = 0
𝑥 = −1 𝑥=3
The intersection on the x-axis are 𝑥 = −1 and 𝑥 = −3.

(iv) 𝑓(0) = 2(0 + 2)2 − 2

=8−2
=6
The graph intersects the y-axis at (0, 6).

(v) The curve is sketched as shown in the diagram below.

𝑓(𝑥) = 2(𝑥 + 2)2 − 2

x
−3 −1 0

(−2, −2)

47 Quadratic Functions
(c) 𝑓(𝑥) = 9 − (𝑥 − 2)2
= 9 − (𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 4)
= −𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 5
= −(𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 5)
= −(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 5)

𝑎 = −1, 𝑏 = 4, 𝑐 = 5
(i) 𝑎 < 0, so 𝑓(𝑥) has a maximum point
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (4)2 − 4(−1)(5)
= 16 + 20
= 36(> 0)
The curve intersects the x-axis at two different points.

(ii) Maximum point is (2, 9) and the equation of the axis of symmetry, 𝑥 = 2.

(iii) 𝑓(𝑥) = 0
−(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 5) = 0
𝑥 + 1 = 0 or 𝑥 − 5 = 0
𝑥 = −1 𝑥=5
The intersection on the x-axis are 𝑥 = −1 and 𝑥 = 5.

(iv) 𝑓(0) = 9 − (0 − 2)2

=9−4
=5
The graph intersects the y-axis at (0, 5).

(v) The curve is sketched as shown in the diagram below.

y
(2, 9)


5 𝑓(𝑥) = 9 − (𝑥 − 2)2

x
−1 0 5

48 Quadratic Functions
(d) 𝑓(𝑥) = −2(𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 − 3)
= −2(𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 3)
= −2𝑥 2 + 8𝑥 − 6
= −2(𝑥 2 − 4𝑥) − 6
2
−4 2 −4 2
= −2 𝑥 − 4𝑥 + ( ) − ( ) − 6
2 2
= −2[(𝑥 − 2)2 − 4] − 6
= −2(𝑥 − 2)2 + 2

𝑎 = −2, 𝑏 = 8, 𝑐 = −6
(i) 𝑎 < 0, so 𝑓(𝑥) has a maximum point
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (8)2 − 4(−2)(−6)
= 64 − 48
= 16(> 0)
The curve intersects the x-axis at two different points.

(ii) Maximum point is (2, 2) and the equation of the axis of symmetry, 𝑥 = 2.

(iii) 𝑓(𝑥) = 0
−2(𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 − 3) = 0
𝑥 − 1 = 0 or 𝑥 − 3 = 0
𝑥=1 𝑥=3
The intersection on the x-axis are 𝑥 = 1 and 𝑥 = 3.

(iv) 𝑓(0) = −2(0 − 2)2 + 2

= −8 + 2
= −6
The graph intersects the y-axis at (0, −6).

(v) The curve is sketched as shown in the diagram below.

y
(2, 2)

x
0 1 3

𝑓(𝑥) = −2(𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 − 3)

−6

49 Quadratic Functions
(e) 𝑓(𝑥) = −(𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 + 5)
= −(𝑥 2 + 8𝑥 + 15)
= −𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 − 15
= −(𝑥 2 + 8𝑥) − 15
2
8 2 8 2
= − 𝑥 + 8𝑥 + ( ) − ( ) − 15
2 2
= −[(𝑥 + 4)2 − 16] − 15
= −(𝑥 + 4)2 + 1

𝑎 = −1, 𝑏 = −8, 𝑐 = −15

(i) 𝑎 < 0, so 𝑓(𝑥) has a maximum point
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (−8)2 − 4(−1)(−15)
= 64 − 60
= 4(> 0)
The curve intersects the x-axis at two different points.

(ii) Maximum point is (−4, 1) and the equation of the axis of symmetry, 𝑥 = 2.

(iii) 𝑓(𝑥) = 0
−(𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 + 5) = 0
𝑥 + 3 = 0 or 𝑥 + 5 = 0
𝑥 = −3 𝑥 = −5
The intersection on the x-axis are 𝑥 = −3 and 𝑥 = −5.

(iv) 𝑓(0) = −(0 + 4)2 + 1

= −16 + 1
= −15
The graph intersects the y-axis at (0, −15).

(v) The curve is sketched as shown in the diagram below.

(−4, 1)

x
−5 −3 0

𝑓(𝑥) = −(𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 + 5)

−15

50 Quadratic Functions
(f) 𝑓(𝑥) = 2(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 3)
= 2(𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 − 3)
= 2𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 6
= 2(𝑥 2 − 2𝑥) − 6
−2 2 −2 2
= 2 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 + ( ) − ( ) − 6
2 2
= 2[(𝑥 − 1)2 − 1] − 6
= 2(𝑥 − 1)2 − 8

𝑎 = 2, 𝑏 = −4, 𝑐 = −6
(i) 𝑎 > 0, so 𝑓(𝑥) has a minimum point
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (−4)2 − 4(2)(−6)
= 16 + 48
= 64(> 0)
The curve intersects the x-axis at two different points.

(ii) Minimum point is (1, −8) and the equation of the axis of symmetry, 𝑥 = 1.

(iii) 𝑓(𝑥) = 0
2(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 3) = 0
𝑥 + 1 = 0 or 𝑥 − 3 = 0
𝑥 = −1 𝑥=3
The intersection on the x-axis are 𝑥 = −1 and 𝑥 = 3.

(iv) 𝑓(0) = 2(0 − 1)2 − 8

=2−8
= −6
The graph intersects the y-axis at (0, −6).

(v) The curve is sketched as shown in the diagram below.

𝑓(𝑥) = 2(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 3)

x
−1 0 3

−6

(1, −8)

51 Quadratic Functions
(g) 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 5 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 5
= −(𝑥 2 − 4𝑥) + 5 = −(𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 5)
−4 2 −4 2 = −(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 5)
= − 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + ( ) −( ) +5
2 2
= −[(𝑥 − 2)2 − 4] + 5
= −(𝑥 − 2)2 + 9

𝑎 = −1, 𝑏 = 4, 𝑐 = 5
(i) 𝑎 < 0, so 𝑓(𝑥) has a maximum point
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (4)2 − 4(−1)(5)
= 16 + 20
= 36(> 0)
The curve intersects the x-axis at two different points.

(ii) Maximum point is (2, 9) and the equation of the axis of symmetry, 𝑥 = −4.

(iii) 𝑓(𝑥) = 0
−(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 5) = 0
𝑥 + 1 = 0 or 𝑥 − 5 = 0
𝑥 = −1 𝑥=5
The intersection on the x-axis are 𝑥 = −1 and 𝑥 = 5.

(iv) 𝑓(0) = −(0 + 2)2 + 9

= −4 + 9
=5
The graph intersects the y-axis at (0, 5).

(v) The curve is sketched as shown in the diagram below.

y
(2, 9)

5 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 5

x
−1 0 5

52 Quadratic Functions
(h) 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 − 2 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 − 2
3 = (𝑥 + 2)(2𝑥 − 1)
= 2 (𝑥 2 + 𝑥) − 2
2
3 2 3 2
3
= 2 𝑥2 + 𝑥 + ( 2 ) − ( 2 ) − 2
2 2 2

3 2 9
= 2 (𝑥 + ) − ( ) − 2
4 16
3 2 1
= 2 (𝑥 + ) − 3
4 8

𝑎 = 2, 𝑏 = −4, 𝑐 = −6
(i) 𝑎 > 0, so 𝑓(𝑥) has a minimum point
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (−4)2 − 4(2)(−6)
= 16 + 48
= 64(> 0)
The curve intersects the x-axis at two different points.

3 1 3
(ii) Minimum point is (− , −3 ) and the equation of the axis of symmetry, 𝑥 = − .
4 8 4

(iii) 𝑓(𝑥) = 0
(𝑥 + 2)(2𝑥 − 1) = 0
𝑥 + 2 = 0 or 2𝑥 − 1 = 0
1
𝑥 = −2 𝑥=
2
1
The intersection on the x-axis are 𝑥 = −2 and 𝑥 = .
2

2
3 1
(iv) 𝑓(0) = 2 0 + −3
4 8
9 1
= −3
8 8
= −2
The graph intersects the y-axis at (0, −2).
y
(v) The curve is sketched as shown in the diagram on the right.

𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 − 2

−2
x
0 1
−2 2

3 1
(− , −3 )
4 8

53 Quadratic Functions
(i) 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 12 𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 12
= −(𝑥 2 − 4𝑥) + 12 = −(𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 12)
−4 2 −4 2 = −(𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 6)
= − 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + ( ) − ( ) + 12
2 2
= −[(𝑥 − 2)2 − 4] + 12
= −(𝑥 − 2)2 + 16

𝑎 = −1, 𝑏 = 4, 𝑐 = 12
(i) 𝑎 < 0, so 𝑓(𝑥) has a maximum point
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (4)2 − 4(−1)(12)
= 16 + 48
= 64(> 0)
The curve intersects the x-axis at two different points.

(ii) Maximum point is (2, 16) and the equation of the axis of symmetry, 𝑥 = 2.

(iii) 𝑓(𝑥) = 0
−(𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 6) = 0
𝑥 + 2 = 0 or 𝑥 − 6 = 0
𝑥 = −2 𝑥=6
The intersection on the x-axis are 𝑥 = 2 and 𝑥 = 6.

(iv) 𝑓(0) = −(0 − 2)2 + 16

= −4 + 16
= 12
The graph intersects the y-axis at (0,12).

(v) The curve is sketched as shown in the diagram below.

y
(2, 16)

12
𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 12

x
−2 0 6

54 Quadratic Functions
Self Practice 2.11

1. The function ℎ(𝑡) = −5𝑡 2 + 8𝑡 + 4 represents the height h, in metres, of a diver from the water surface
in a swimming pool, t seconds after he dives from the diving board. Find
(a) the height, in metres, of the diving board from the water surface,
(b) the time, in seconds, the diver achieves at the maximum height,
(c) the maximum height, in metres, the diver achieves,
(d) the time, in seconds, when the diver is in the air.

Answer:
(a) Given ℎ(𝑡) = −5𝑡 2 + 8𝑡 + 4.
The diving board from the water surface, ⟹ 𝑡 = 0.
ℎ(0) = −5(0)2 + 8(0) + 4.
=4m

(b) Given ℎ(𝑡) = −5𝑡 2 + 8𝑡 + 4

8
= −5 (𝑡 2 − 𝑡) + 4
5
8 2 8 2
8
= −5 𝑡 2 − 𝑡 + (− 5 ) − (− 5 ) + 4
5 2 2

4 2 16
= −5 (𝑡 − ) − ( ) + 4
5 25
= −5(𝑡 − 0.8)2 + 7.2

Maximum point is (0.8, 7.2)

The time, the diver achieves at the maximum height is 0.8 seconds.

(c) The maximum height, the diver achieves is 7.2 m.

(d) The diver is in the air, ℎ(𝑡) = 0.

−5𝑡 2 + 8𝑡 + 4 = 0
5𝑡 2 − 8𝑡 − 4 = 0
(5𝑡 + 2)(𝑡 − 2) = 0
5𝑡 + 2 = 0 or 𝑡 − 2 = 0
2
𝑡=− 𝑡=2
5
∴0<𝑡<2

55 Quadratic Functions
2. A tunnel at a certain part of a highway is in the shape of
parabola. The height, in metres, of the curve of the parabola is
given by the function ℎ(𝑥) = 15 − 0.06𝑥 2 , where x is the width
of the tunnel, in metres.
(a) Determine the maximum height, in metres, of the tunnel.
(b) Find the width, in metres, of the tunnel.

Answer:
(a) Given ℎ(𝑥) = 15 − 0.06𝑥 2
Maximum point is (0, 15)
 The maximum height is 15 m.

(b) Given ℎ(𝑥) = 15 − 0.06𝑥 2

The width of the tunnel, ℎ(𝑥) = 0
15 − 0.06𝑥 2 = 0
0.06𝑥 2 = 15
𝑥 2 = 250
𝑥 = √250
𝑥 = 15.811m
 The width, in metres, of the tunnel
= 2 × 15.811 m
= 31.622 m

3. The diagram on the right shows the cross section of a y

parabolic satellite whose function is represented by
1 1 2
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 , where x and y are measured in metres. 𝑦= 𝑥
4 4
 
Find the width and the depth of the parabola, in metres. (−2, 1) (2, 1)
x
0
Answer:
The width = 2 + 2
=4m

The depth = 1 m

56 Quadratic Functions
4. The diagram on the right shows a suspension bridge. y
The function of the cables between the two pillars of the 1 2
1 2 𝑦= 𝑥 − 𝑥 + 150
400
brige is represented by 𝑦 = 𝑥 − 𝑥 + 150, where 𝑥
400 Road
and y are measured in metres. The minimum point of
the cable is on the road surface at the middle of the two x
pillars. 0
Pillars
(a) What is the distance between the minimum point and
each pillar?
(b) What is the height of the road above the water level?

Answer:
(a) 1 2
𝑦= 𝑥 − 𝑥 + 150
400
1
= (𝑥 2 − 400𝑥) + 150
400
1 2
−400 2 −400 2
= 𝑥 − 400𝑥 + ( ) −( ) + 150
400 2 2
1
= [(𝑥 − 200)2 − 40000] + 150
400
1
= (𝑥 − 200)2 + 50
400

The minimum point is (200, 50).

The distance between the minimum point and each pillar is 200 m.

(b) The minimum point is (200, 50).

The height of the road above the water level is 50 m.

57 Quadratic Functions
Intensive Practice 2.3

1. Find the values or range of values of k, if the quadratic function

(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑘𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 𝑘 − 3 has only one intercept,
(b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 2(2𝑘 + 4) intersects the x-axis at two different points.

Answer:
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑘𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 𝑘 − 3 (b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 2(2𝑘 + 4)
𝑎 = 𝑘, 𝑏 = −4, 𝑐 =𝑘−3 𝑎 = 3, 𝑏 = −4, 𝑐 = −2(2𝑘 + 4)

Has only one intercept, Intersects the x-axis at two different points,
⟹ 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0 ⟹ 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0
(−4)2 − 4(𝑘)(𝑘 − 3) = 0 (−4)2 − 4(3)[−2(2𝑘 + 4)] > 0
16 − 4𝑘 2 + 12𝑘 = 0 16 + (24)(2𝑘 + 4) > 0
4 − 𝑘 2 + 3𝑘 = 0 16 + 48𝑘 + 96 > 0
𝑘 2 − 3𝑘 − 4 = 0 112 + 48𝑘 > 0
(𝑘 + 1)(𝑘 − 4) = 0 7 + 3𝑘 > 0
𝑘 + 1 = 0 or 𝑘 − 4 = 0 3𝑘 > −7
𝑘 = −1 𝑘=4 7
𝑘>−
3

2. Find the smallest value of integer m such that the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑚𝑥 2 + 7𝑥 + 3 is always positive for
all real values of x.

Answer:
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑚𝑥 2 + 7𝑥 + 3
𝑎 = 𝑚, 𝑏 = 7, 𝑐=3

𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑚𝑥 2 + 7𝑥 + 3 is always positive,

⇒ 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0
(7)2 − 4(𝑚)(3) < 0
49 − 12𝑚 < 0
12𝑚 > 49
49
𝑚>
12
𝑚 > 4.083
∴ 𝑚 = 5 (smallest value)

58 Quadratic Functions
3. The quadratic function is defined by 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 𝑛, where n is a constant.
(a) Express 𝑓(𝑥) in the form (𝑥 − ℎ)2 + 𝑘 where h and k are constants.
(b) Given the minimum value of 𝑓(𝑥) is −5, find the value of n.
(c) Sketch the curve of 𝑓(𝑥).

Answer:
(a) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 𝑛 (b) 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 + 3)2 − 9 + 𝑛

6 2 6 2 The minimum value of 𝑓(𝑥) is −5,

2
= 𝑥 + 6𝑥 + ( ) − ( ) + 𝑛 ∴ −9 + 𝑛 = −5
2 2
2 𝑛=4
= (𝑥 + 3) − 9 + 𝑛

(c) 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 + 3)2 − 5

= (𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 9) − 5
= 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 4

𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = 6, 𝑐 = 4
(i) 𝑎 > 0, so 𝑓(𝑥) has a minimum point
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (6)2 − 4(1)(4)
= 36 + 16
= 20(> 0)
The curve intersects the x-axis at two different points.

(ii) Minimum point is (−3, −5) and the equation of the axis of symmetry, 𝑥 = −3.

(iii) 𝑓(𝑥) = 0
−(6) ± √(6)2 − 4(1)(4)
𝑥=
2(1)
−6 ± √20
𝑥=
2
𝑥 = −5.236 or −0.764
The intersection on the x-axis are 𝑥 = −5.236 and 𝑥 = −0.764.

(iv) 𝑓(0) = (0 + 3)2 − 5

=9−5
=4
The graph intersects the y-axis at (0, 4).
y
(v) The curve is sketched as shown in the diagram on the right.
𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 + 3)2 − 5
4

x
0

(−3, −5)

59 Quadratic Functions
4. Find the range of values of r such that the line 𝑦 = 𝑟𝑥 + 4 does not intersect the curve 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 5.
State the values of r such that the line 𝑦 = 𝑟𝑥 + 4 is a tangent to the curve 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 5.

Answer:
𝑦 = 𝑟𝑥 + 4 -----① 𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −(𝑟 + 4), 𝑐=1
𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 5 -----② A tangent to the curve,
2
①=②: 𝑥 − 4𝑥 + 5 = 𝑟𝑥 + 4 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0
[−(𝑟 + 4)]2 − 4(1)(1) = 0
𝑥 2 − 𝑟𝑥 − 4𝑥 + 1 = 0
(𝑟 2 + 8𝑟 + 16) − 4 = 0
𝑥 2 − (𝑟 + 4)𝑥 + 1 = 0
𝑟 2 + 8𝑟 + 12 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −(𝑟 + 4), 𝑐=1
Does not intersect the curve, (𝑟 + 2)(𝑟 + 6) = 0
𝑟+2=0 or 𝑟 + 6 = 0
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0
[−(𝑟 + 4)]2 − 4(1)(1) < 0 𝑟 = −2 or 𝑟 = −6
(𝑟 2 + 8𝑟 + 16) − 4 < 0
𝑟 2 + 8𝑟 + 12 < 0
(𝑟 + 2)(𝑟 + 6) < 0

Let (𝑟 + 2)(𝑟 + 6) = 0
𝑟 + 2 = 0 or 𝑟 + 6 = 0
𝑟 = −2 𝑟 = −6 −6 −2

−6 < 𝑟 < −2

5. Explain the effect on the shape and position of the graph for each change on the following quadratic
functions.
(a) Change 𝑓(𝑥) = 3(𝑥 − 1)2 + 2 to 𝑓(𝑥) = 6(𝑥 − 1)2 + 2.
(b) Change 𝑓(𝑥) = 3(𝑥 − 1)2 + 2 to 𝑓(𝑥) = 3(𝑥 − 4)2 + 2.
(c) Change 𝑓(𝑥) = 3(𝑥 − 1)2 + 2 to 𝑓(𝑥) = 3(𝑥 − 1)2 + 5.

Answer:

(a) The width of the graph decreases. The axis of symmetry and the minimum value do not change.

(b) The graph with the same shape moves horizontally 3 units to the right. The equation of the axis of
symmetry becomes 𝑥 = 4 and the minimum value do not change, which is 2.

(c) The graph with the same shape moves vertically 3 units upwards. The minimum value becomes 5 and
the axis of symmetry does not change, which is 𝑥 = 1.

60 Quadratic Functions
6. The height, h, in metres, of a bird to catch a fish in a pond can be
represented by the function ℎ(𝑡) = 2(𝑡 − 3)2 , where t is the time, in
seconds, when the bird starts to fly to catch the fish.
(a) Sketch the graph of ℎ(𝑡).
(b) The movement of another bird is represented by the function
𝑟(𝑡) = 2ℎ(𝑡). Sketch the graph of r(𝑡).
(c) Compare the graphs of ℎ(𝑡) and 𝑟(𝑡). Which bird starts
to move at the highest position? Explain.

Answer:
(a) ℎ(𝑡) = 2(𝑡 − 3)2
= 2(𝑡 2 − 6𝑥 + 9)
= 2𝑡 2 − 12𝑥 + 18

𝑎 = 2, 𝑏 = −12, 𝑐 = 18
(i) 𝑎 > 0, so ℎ(𝑡) has a minimum point
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (−12)2 − 4(2)(18)
= 144 + 144
=0
The curve have two equal real roots.

(ii) Minimum point is (3, 0) and the equation of the axis of symmetry, 𝑥 = 3.

(iii) ℎ(𝑡) = 0
2(𝑡 − 3)2 = 0
𝑡=3 ℎ(𝑡)
The intersection on the 𝑡-axis is 𝑡 = 3.
𝑡=3

(iv) ℎ(0) = 2(0 − 3)2 18

= 18 ℎ(𝑡) = 2(𝑡 − 3)2
The graph intersects the h-axis at (0,18).
t
(v) The curve is sketched as shown in the diagram on the right. 0 3

(b) (c) The graph of function ℎ(𝑡) with the value of 𝑎 = 2 is wider
𝑟(𝑡) than the graph of 𝑟(𝑡) with the value of 𝑎 = 4. Therefore, the
𝑡=3 bird that is represented by the function 𝑟(𝑡) moves at the
36 hightest position, which is 36 m above the water level
𝑟(𝑡) = 2ℎ(𝑡) compared to the bird that is represented by the function ℎ(𝑡)
with 18 m above the water level.

t
0 3

61 Quadratic Functions
7. Given a quadratic function 𝑓(𝑥) = 3 − 4𝑘 − (𝑘 + 3)𝑥 − 𝑥 2 , where k is a constant, is always negative
when p < k < q. Find the value of p and of q.

Answer:
𝑓(𝑥) = 3 − 4𝑘 − (𝑘 + 3)𝑥 − 𝑥 2
𝑓(𝑥) = −𝑥 2 − (𝑘 + 3)𝑥 + 3 − 4𝑘
𝑎 = −1, 𝑏 = −(𝑘 + 3), 𝑐 = 3 − 4𝑘
2
Always negative, 𝑏 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0
[−(𝑘 + 3)]2 − 4(−1)(3 − 4𝑘) < 0
(𝑘 2 + 6𝑘 + 9) + 12 − 16𝑘 < 0
𝑘 2 − 10𝑘 + 21 < 0
(𝑘 − 3)(𝑘 − 7) < 0

Let (𝑘 − 3)(𝑘 − 7) = 0
𝑘 − 3 = 0 or 𝑘 − 7 = 0
𝑘=3 𝑘=7 3 7

3<𝑘<7
∴ 𝑝 = 3, 𝑞=7

62 Quadratic Functions
8. The diagram on the right shows a bridge PQ of length 8 m across a river. 𝑓(𝑥)
The supporting cable ABC on the bridge can be represented by the
1
1 2
A 𝑓(𝑥) = 8 𝑥 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 C
function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, where b and c are constant.
8
(a) Find the value of b. 
(b) Find the value of c such that the minimum point B on the cable is B
always above PQ. x
0P 8m Q
(c) Find the values of c if B is 2 m above PQ.

Answer:
(a) 1
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐
8
1 2
= (𝑥 + 8𝑏𝑥) + 𝑐
8
1 2 8𝑏 2 8𝑏 2
= 𝑥 + 8𝑏𝑥 + ( ) − ( ) + 𝑐
8 2 2
1
= [(𝑥 + 4𝑏)2 − 16𝑏 2 ] + 𝑐
8
1
= (𝑥 + 4𝑏)2 + 𝑐 − 16𝑏 2
8
Minimum point is (−4𝑏, 𝑐 − 16𝑏 2 ).
8
∴ −4𝑏 =
2
𝑏 = −1

(b) 1
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 𝑥 + 𝑐
8
1
𝑎 = , 𝑏 = −1, 𝑐′ = 𝑐
8
Always above PQ, 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0
1
(−1)2 − 4 ( ) (𝑐) < 0
8
1
1− 𝑐 < 0
2
1
𝑐>1
2
𝑐>2

(c) Minimum point is = (4,2)

1
Substitute 𝑥 = 4 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑓(𝑥) = 2 into 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 𝑥 + 𝑐.
8
1
2 = (4)2 − (4) + 𝑐
8
2=2−4+𝑐
𝑐=4

63 Quadratic Functions
9. The function ℎ(𝑡) = −4𝑡 2 + 32𝑡 as shown in the diagram
on the right represents the height, in metres, of a firework,
t seconds after it was launched. The fireworks exploded at ℎ(𝑡) = −4𝑡 2 + 32𝑡
the highest point.
(a) When did the firework explode?
(b) What was the height at which the fireworks explode?

Answer:
(a) ℎ(𝑡) = −4𝑡 2 + 32𝑡 (b) Maximum point is (4, 64).
= −4(𝑡 2 − 8𝑡) The height at which the fireworks explode is 64 m.
−8 2 −8 2
= −4 𝑡 2 − 8𝑡 + ( ) − ( )
2 2
= −4[(𝑡 − 4)2 − 16]
= −4(𝑡 − 4)2 + 64

Maximum point is (4, 64).

The firework explode 4 seconds.

10. The diagram on the right shows the graph of y

𝑦 = −(𝑥 − 𝛼)(𝑥 − 𝛽) where 𝛼 < 𝛽.
(a) Given that M is the midpoint of AB, express the 𝑦 = −(𝑥 − 𝛼)(𝑥 − 𝛽)
following lengths, in terms of 𝛼 and/or 𝛽.
(i) OA (ii) OB   x
0 A B
(iii) OC (iv) OM
𝛼+𝛽 C
(b) Can you interpret and − 𝛼𝛽 in the diagram
2
geometrically?

Answer:
(a) (i) 𝑂𝐴 = 𝛼 (ii) 𝑂𝐵 = 𝛽 A(𝛼, 0), B(𝛽, 0) C(0, −𝛼𝛽)
𝛼+𝛽
(iii) 𝑂𝐶 = 𝛼𝛽 (iv) 𝑂𝑀 =
2 Substitute 𝑥 = 0 into 𝑦 = −(𝑥 − 𝛼)(𝑥 − 𝛽).
𝑦 = −(0 − 𝛼)(0 − 𝛽)
𝑦 = −𝛼𝛽
 C(0, −𝛼𝛽)

𝛼+𝛽
(b) 𝑖s the x-coordinate of the maximum point of the graph and
2
−𝛼𝛽 is the y-intercept of the graph.

64 Quadratic Functions
11. The maximum value of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 4𝑛𝑥 + 5𝑛2 + 1 is 𝑚2 + 2𝑛 where m and n are constants.
Show that 𝑚 = 𝑛 − 1.

Answer:
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 4𝑛𝑥 + 5𝑛2 + 1
2
−4𝑛 2 −4𝑛 2
= 𝑥 − 4𝑛𝑥 + ( ) −( ) + 5𝑛2 + 1
2 2
= (𝑥 + 4𝑛2 )2 − (4𝑛2 ) + 5𝑛2 + 1
= (𝑥 + 4𝑛2 )2 + 𝑛2 + 1

The maximum value of 𝑓(𝑥) is (𝑛2 + 1).

(𝑛2 + 1) = 𝑚2 + 2𝑛
𝑚2 = 𝑛2 − 2𝑛 + 1
𝑚2 = (𝑛 − 1)2
𝑚 = 𝑛 − 1 (shown)

65 Quadratic Functions
1. Solve the quadratic equation 3𝑥(𝑥 − 4) = (2 − 𝑥)(𝑥 + 5). Write the answer in three decimal places.
PL2
Answer:

3𝑥(𝑥 − 4) = (2 − 𝑥)(𝑥 + 5)
3𝑥 2 − 12𝑥 = 2𝑥 + 10 − 𝑥 2 − 5𝑥
4𝑥 2 − 9𝑥 − 10 = 0
𝑎 = 4, 𝑏 = −9, 𝑐 = −10
−(−9) ± √(−9)2 − 4(4)(−10)
𝑥=
2(4)
9 ± √241
𝑥=
8
9 − √241 9 + √241
𝑥= , 𝑥=
8 8
𝑥 = −0.816, 3.066

2. Given the quadratic equation (𝑥 − 4)2 = 3.

PL2
(a) Express the equation in the general form, 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0.
(b) State the sum of roots and products of roots of the equation.
(c) Determine the type of roots of the equation.

Answer:
(a) (𝑥 − 4)2 = 3
𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 16 = 3
𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 13 = 0

(b) 𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 13 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −8, 𝑐 = 13
𝑏 𝑐
sum of roots = − product of roots =
𝑎 𝑎
−8 13
=− =
1 1
=8 = 13

(c) 𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 13 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −8, 𝑐 = 13
𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = (−8)2 − 4(1)(13)
= 12
>0
Two real and different roots.

66 Quadratic Functions
3. Find the values of k or the range of values of k such that the equation 𝑥 2 + 𝑘𝑥 = 𝑘 − 8 has
PL2
(a) two equal roots,
(b) two real and different roots,
(c) real roots.

Answer:
𝑥 2 + 𝑘𝑥 = 𝑘 − 8
𝑥 2 + 𝑘𝑥 + 8 − 𝑘 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = 𝑘, 𝑐 = 8−𝑘

(a) two equal roots, 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0

(𝑘)2 − 4(1)(8 − 𝑘) = 0
𝑘 2 − 32 + 4𝑘 = 0
𝑘 2 + 4𝑘 − 32 = 0
(𝑘 + 8)(𝑘 − 4) = 0
𝑘 + 8 = 0 or 𝑘 − 4 = 0
𝑘 = −8 𝑘=4

(b) two real and different roots, 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0

(𝑘)2 − 4(1)(8 − 𝑘) > 0
𝑘 2 − 32 + 4𝑘 > 0
𝑘 2 + 4𝑘 − 32 > 0
(𝑘 + 8)(𝑘 − 4) > 0

Let (𝑘 + 8)(𝑘 − 4) = 0
𝑘 + 8 = 0 or 𝑘 − 4 = 0
𝑘 = −8 𝑘=4 −8 4

𝑘 < −8, 𝑘 > 4

(c) real roots, 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 ≥ 0

(𝑘)2 − 4(1)(8 − 𝑘) ≥ 0
𝑘 2 − 32 + 4𝑘 ≥ 0
𝑘 2 + 4𝑘 − 32 ≥ 0
(𝑘 + 8)(𝑘 − 4) ≥ 0

Let (𝑘 + 8)(𝑘 − 4) = 0
𝑘 + 8 = 0 or 𝑘 − 4 = 0
𝑘 = −8 𝑘=4 −8 4

𝑘 ≤ −8, 𝑘 ≥ 4

67 Quadratic Functions
4. Given the quadratic equation 3𝑥 2 + 𝑝𝑥 − 8 = 0, where p is a constant. Find the value of p if PL2
(a) one of the roots of the equation is −2.
1
(b) the sum of roots of the equation is .
3

Answer:
(a) One of the roots of the equation is −2. 3𝑥 2 + 𝑝𝑥 − 8 = 0
Substitute 𝑥 = −2 into 3𝑥 2 + 𝑝𝑥 − 8 = 0. 𝑎 = 3, 𝑏 = 𝑝, 𝑐 = −8
3(−2)2 + 𝑝(−2) − 8 = 0 (b) 1
12 − 2𝑝 − 8 = 0 The sum of roots of the equation is .
3
2𝑝 = 4 𝑝 1
− =
𝑝=2 3 3
𝑝 = −1

5. Given 3ℎ𝑥 2 − 7𝑘𝑥 + 3ℎ = 0 has two real and equal roots, where h and k are positive. Find the ratio h : k
and solve the equation.
PL3

Answer:
3ℎ𝑥 2 − 7𝑘𝑥 + 3ℎ = 0
𝑎 = 3ℎ, 𝑏 = −7𝑘, 𝑐 = 3ℎ

Two real and equal roots, 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0

(−7𝑘)2 − 4(3ℎ)(3ℎ) = 0
49𝑘 2 − 36ℎ2 = 0
36ℎ2 = 49𝑘 2
ℎ2 49
=
𝑘 2 36
ℎ 2 7 2
( ) =( )
𝑘 6
ℎ 7
=
𝑘 6
ℎ∶𝑘=7∶6

68 Quadratic Functions
6. Find the range of values of x for 𝑥 2 − 7𝑥 + 10 > 0 and 𝑥 2 − 7𝑥 ≤ 0. Hence, solve the inequality
−10 < 𝑥 2 − 7𝑥 ≤ 0. PL5

Answer:
𝑥 2 − 7𝑥 + 10 > 0
(𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 − 5) > 0

Let (𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 − 5) = 0
𝑥 − 2 = 0 or 𝑥 − 5 = 0
𝑥=2 𝑥=5 2 5

𝑥 < 2 or 𝑥 > 5

𝑥 2 − 7𝑥 ≤ 0
𝑥(𝑥 − 7) ≤ 0

Let 𝑥(𝑥 − 7) = 0
𝑥 = 0 or 𝑥 − 7 = 0
𝑥=7 0 7

0≤𝑥≤7

−10 < 𝑥 2 − 7𝑥 ≤ 0

(𝑖) − 10 < 𝑥 2 − 7𝑥
𝑥 2 − 7𝑥 + 10 > 0
Range of values of x: 𝑥 < 2 or 𝑥 > 5

(𝑖𝑖) 𝑥 2 − 7𝑥 ≤ 0
Range of values of x: 0 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 7

0≤𝑥≤7
Range of values of x for −10 < 𝑥 2 − 7𝑥 ≤ 0 : 𝑥<2 𝑥>5
0 ≤ 𝑥 < 2 or 5 < 𝑥 ≤ 7
0 2 5 7

69 Quadratic Functions
7. The diagram on the right shows the graph of quadratic function f(x)
1
𝑓(𝑥) = − [(𝑥 + 𝑝)2 + 𝑞]. The line 𝑦 = 4 is the tangent to the
3
curve. Find 𝑦=4
PL3
(a) the roots for 𝑓(𝑥) = 0,
(b) the values of p and of q,
  x
(c) the equation of the axis of symmetry of the curve, 0 3 7
(d) the range of values of x when 𝑓(𝑥) is positive.

Answer:
(a) The roots for 𝑓(𝑥) = 0,
𝑥 = 3, 7

(b) Maximum point:

7+3
=( , 4)
2
= (5, 4)

1
𝑓(𝑥) = − [(𝑥 + 𝑝)2 + 𝑞]
3
1 1
𝑓(𝑥) = − (𝑥 + 𝑝)2 − 𝑞
3 3
1
𝑥+𝑝 =0 − 𝑞=4
3
5+𝑝=0 𝑞 = −12
𝑝 = −5

(c) The equation of the axis of symmetry of the curve is 𝑥 = 5.

(d) The range of values of x when 𝑓(𝑥) is positive:

3<𝑥<7

70 Quadratic Functions
8. The diagram on the right shows the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, y
where b and c are constants. Find
(a) the values of b and of c, PL3

(b) the coordinates of the minimum point, 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥)

(c) the range of values of x when 𝑓(𝑥) is negative,
(d) the maximum value when the graph is reflected in the x-axis.  6 x
0 2
Answer:
(a) Roots of the graph are 2 and 6.
𝑏 = −(sum of roots) 𝑐 = product of roots
= −(2 + 6) = 2×6
= −8 = 12

(b) 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 12

2
−8 2 −8 2
= 𝑥 − 8𝑥 + ( ) − ( ) + 12
2 2
2
= (𝑥 − 4) − 16 + 12
= (𝑥 − 4)2 − 4
The minimum point is (4, −4).

(c) The range of values of x when 𝑓(𝑥) is negative:

2<𝑥<6

(d) The minimum point is (4, −4).

The maximum value when the graph is reflected in the x-axis is 4.

71 Quadratic Functions
9. A boat moves 24 km to the east and the water current was 3 km/h. The to-and-fro journey took 6 hours.
Find the velocity of the boat, in km/h, if the boat maintained its uniform velocity.
PL5

Answer:

24 km

𝑣𝐵𝑜𝑎𝑡 = 𝑥 km/h
𝑣𝑊𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟 = 3 km/h

To journey: Resultant velocity, 𝑣𝐵𝑊 = (𝑥 + 3) km/h

Let time taken is 𝑡 hours.

(𝑥 + 3)𝑡 = 24
24
𝑡= -----①
𝑥+3

24 km

𝑣𝐵𝑜𝑎𝑡 = 𝑥 km/h
𝑣𝑊𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟 = 3 km/h
Fro journey:
Resultant velocity, 𝑣𝐵𝑊 = (𝑥 − 3) km/h

Time taken is (6 − 𝑡) hours.

(𝑥 − 3)(6 − 𝑡) = 24 -----②

Substitute ① into ②.
24
(𝑥 − 3) [6 − ] = 24
𝑥+3
6(𝑥 + 3) − 24
(𝑥 − 3) = 24
𝑥+3
6𝑥 + 18 − 24
(𝑥 − 3) [ ] = 24
𝑥+3
(𝑥 − 3)(6𝑥 − 6) = 24(𝑥 + 3)
6𝑥 2 − 24𝑥 + 18 = 24𝑥 + 72
𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 − 9 = 0
(𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 − 9) = 0
𝑥 − 1 = 0 or 𝑥 − 9 = 0
𝑥=1 𝑥=9

 The velocity of the boat is 9 km/h.

72 Quadratic Functions
10. An ancient Chinese book, Jiuzhang Suanshu which means “Nine Chapters on Mathematics Arts”
contained the following problem.
PL4

“The height of a rectangular door is 6.8 units more than its width and the length
between two opposite vertices is 100 units. Find the width of the door.

Using a quadratic formula, solve the problem.

Answer:
𝑥 2 + (𝑥 + 6.8)2 = 1002
𝑥 2 + (𝑥 2 + 13.6𝑥 + 46.24) = 10 000
2𝑥 2 + 13.6𝑥 − 9 953.76 = 0
𝑎 = 2, 𝑏 = 13.6, 𝑐 = −9 953.76
−(13.6) ± √(13.6)2 − 4(2)(−9 953.76)
𝑥=
2(2)
−13.6 ± √79 815.04
𝑥= 𝑥 + 6.8
4
−13.6 − √79 815.04 −13.6 + √79 815.04
𝑥= 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 =
4 4
𝑥 = −74.029 𝑥 = 67.229

 The width of the door is 67.229 units.

x

11. The diagram on the right shows the cross section of a drain around House wall
the house. If the shape of the drain is represented by the equation
1
𝑦 = 𝑥 2 − 24𝑥 + 700, find PL5 Floor
5
(a) the width of the opening of the drain,
(b) the minimum depth of the drain. Drain

Answer:
1 2 (a) Minimum point is (60, −20)
𝑦= 𝑥 − 24𝑥 + 700
5 The width of the opening of the drain
1
= (𝑥 2 − 120𝑥) + 700 = 2 × 60
5
= 120 units Given answer:
1 2 −120 2 −120 2
= 𝑥 − 120𝑥 + ( ) −( ) + 700
5 2 2
1
= [(𝑥 − 60)2 − 3 600] + 700
5
1 (b) Minimum point is (60, −20)
= (𝑥 − 60)2 − 720 + 700
5 The minimum depth of the drain is
1 20 units.
= (𝑥 − 60)2 − 20
5

Minimum point is (60, −20)

73 Quadratic Functions
12. The path of a shot put thrown by Krishna in a competition can be y
represented by the quadratic function graph as shown in the diagram on (3, 2.5)
the right. The shot put is thrown at a height of 2 m and the path passes 
through the maximum point (3, 2.5). PL4
(a) Express the equation of the path of shot put in the form 2
𝑦 = 𝑎(𝑥 − ℎ)2 + 𝑘, where a, h and k are constants. x
0
(b) Find the maximum distance of the horizontal throw, in metres,
by Krishna.

Answer:
(a) 𝑦 = 𝑎(𝑥 − ℎ)2 + 𝑘
Maximum point (3, 2.5)
𝑥−ℎ =0 𝑘 = 2.5
3−ℎ=0
ℎ=3

𝑦 = 𝑎(𝑥 − 3)2 + 2.5 -----①

y-intercept is 2: coordinate of y-intercept is (0, 2).

Substitute 𝑥 = 0 and 𝑦 = 2 into ①.
2 = 𝑎(0 − 3)2 + 2.5
2 = 9𝑎 + 2.5
9𝑎 = −0.5
1
𝑎=−
18

1
∴𝑦=− (𝑥 − 3)2 + 2.5
18

(b) 1
− (𝑥 − 3)2 + 2.5 = 0
18
(𝑥 − 3)2 − 45 = 0
𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 9 − 45 = 0
𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 − 36 = 0
𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = −6, 𝑐 = −36
−(−6) ± √(−6)2 − 4(1)(−36)
𝑥=
2(1)
6 ± √180
𝑥=
2
6 − √180 6 + √180
𝑥= 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 =
2 2
𝑥 = −3.708 𝑥 = 9.708

The maximum distance of the horizontal throw by Krishna is 9.708 metres.

74 Quadratic Functions