Quadratic Formula

[mantha1974]

Can I use the quadratic formula to factor an equation with two variables such as:

2x - 3xy + 4y = -4

Thanks!

 

[mmm4444bot]

Can I use the quadratic formula to factor an equation with two variables such as:

2x - 3xy + 4y = -4

Nope.

(1) We don't factor equations; we factor expressions. :?

(2) The Quadratic Formula is used to solve quadratic equations. The equation that you posted is not quadratic.

(3) Even if we were to obtain an expression using all of these terms (by adding 4 to both sides), the result on the left would not factor, anyway.

(4) Given only one equation in x and y, there is no way to solve such an equation to get any specific numerical values for both variables.

 

[mantha1974]

Ok, that definitely confirms I was going about the problem the wrong way. I'm just supposed to be solving for 'y' .



I think I keep trying to do this stuff when I'm too tired!

 

[mmm4444bot]

… I'm just supposed to be solving for 'y …

If you had said this to begin with, you would already have had an applicable response.

(1) Get all of the terms that contain a factor of y together on one side of the equals sign

(2) Get all of the terms that do not contain a factor of y together on the other side of the equals sign

(3) Factor out y

(4) Divide both sides by the other factor