What types of equations can this solver handle?
This solver supports three types: linear equations (ax + b = c), quadratic equations (ax² + bx + c = 0), and cubic equations (ax³ + bx² + cx + d = 0). Enter the coefficients for your chosen type and the solver finds all real roots. See also our Corner Point Calculator.
What is the discriminant and why does it matter?
The discriminant (Δ = b² − 4ac for quadratics) tells you how many real roots an equation has. If Δ > 0, there are two distinct real roots; if Δ = 0, there is exactly one real root (a repeated root); if Δ < 0, there are no real roots (the roots are complex/imaginary).
What happens if the equation has no real roots?
For quadratic equations where the discriminant is negative, the roots are complex (imaginary). This solver displays real roots only. When no real root exists, the result will indicate that the roots are complex.
How do I solve a linear equation like 2x + 5 = 11?
For a linear equation ax + b = c, rearrange it to ax + (b − c) = 0 form. So 2x + 5 = 11 becomes 2x − 6 = 0. Enter a = 2, b = −6, c = 0 under the Linear type. The solver gives x = 3.
Can I solve equations with decimal or fractional coefficients?
Yes. All coefficient fields accept decimal values. For example, you can enter a = 0.5, b = 1.25, c = −3.75 and the solver will compute accurate decimal roots.
How does the cubic equation solver work?
The cubic solver uses the depressed cubic method and numerical techniques to find up to three real roots for equations of the form ax³ + bx² + cx + d = 0. All three roots (where real) are displayed along with a verification table.
What if the leading coefficient 'a' is zero?
If a = 0 in a quadratic or cubic, the equation reduces to a lower degree. For example, a quadratic with a = 0 becomes linear. The solver handles this gracefully — if a = 0 is entered for a quadratic, it falls back to solving bx + c = 0.
How can I verify that the roots are correct?
The solution verification table shows each root substituted back into the equation, confirming f(x) ≈ 0. Small rounding differences (e.g. 0.000001) are normal due to floating-point precision and confirm the root is correct. You might also find our x = — System of Equations useful.