Solving the Quadratic Equation: (a² + b²)x² - 2(ac + bd)x + (c² + d²) = 0
This equation, (a² + b²)x² - 2(ac + bd)x + (c² + d²) = 0, is a quadratic equation in the form of ax² + bx + c = 0. Here's how to solve it and understand its significance.
Understanding the Equation
- Coefficients: The coefficients in this equation are:
- a = a² + b²
- b = -2(ac + bd)
- c = c² + d²
- Significance: This equation has a special structure that arises in various mathematical and physical contexts.
Solving the Equation
We can solve for 'x' using the quadratic formula:
x = [-b ± √(b² - 4ac)] / 2a
Substituting the coefficients from our equation:
x = [2(ac + bd) ± √((-2(ac + bd))² - 4(a² + b²)(c² + d²))] / 2(a² + b²)
Simplifying the Solution
The expression under the square root can be simplified:
- (-2(ac + bd))² = 4(a²c² + 2abcd + b²d²)
- 4(a² + b²)(c² + d²) = 4(a²c² + a²d² + b²c² + b²d²)
Therefore, the discriminant (b² - 4ac) becomes:
- 4(a²c² + 2abcd + b²d²) - 4(a²c² + a²d² + b²c² + b²d²) = -4(a²d² - 2abcd + b²c²) = -4(ad - bc)²
The final solution is:
x = [(ac + bd) ± √(-(ad - bc)²)] / (a² + b²)
x = [(ac + bd) ± i(ad - bc)] / (a² + b²) (where 'i' is the imaginary unit)
Key Points
- Real Solutions: If (ad - bc)² is positive, the equation has two distinct real solutions.
- Complex Solutions: If (ad - bc)² is negative, the equation has two complex conjugate solutions.
- Special Case: If (ad - bc) = 0, the equation has a single repeated real solution.
Applications
This quadratic equation finds applications in various fields, including:
- Geometry: In problems related to circles, ellipses, and other conic sections.
- Physics: In describing the motion of objects under constant acceleration.
- Linear Algebra: In solving systems of linear equations.
Conclusion
Understanding and solving quadratic equations like (a² + b²)x² - 2(ac + bd)x + (c² + d²) = 0 is crucial for various mathematical and scientific disciplines. The unique structure of this equation reveals interesting insights into the nature of solutions and its applications in real-world problems.