Applications involving Quadratic Equations

The applications in this chapter will involve quadratic equations. Look for the keyword product which
indicates that we will have to multiply in our set-up. Remember to read the question several times, identify
the variables and use algebra to solve the problems. Whenever possible, we will try to set them up using
only one variable.

Number Problem: The difference between two positive integers is 5 and their product is 126. Find the
two integers.

Number Problem: Sarah is 2 years older than her brother Ryan. If the product of their ages is 15, how
old are they?
Note: Consecutive integers are separated by 1 unit and consecutive even and odds are separated by 2
units.

Consecutive Odd Integers: The product of two consecutive odd positive integers is 99. Find the
integers.

Consecutive Even Integers: The product of two consecutive even positive integers is 168. Find the
integers.
Consecutive Integers: The product of two consecutive integers is 182. Find the integers.

Since this problem did not specify positive or negative integers, we must provide both sets of answers.

Basic Guidelines for Solving Word Problems:

1. Read the problem several times and organize the given information.
2. Identify the variables by assigning a letter to the unknown quantity.
3. Set up an algebraic equation.
4. Solve the equation.
5. Finally, answer the question and make sure it makes sense.

With geometry type problems it sometimes helps if we draw a picture. Here are some area formulas that
you are expected to know.

Geometry Problem: The length of a rectangular room is 2 feet more than twice its width. If the total area
in the room is 220 square feet, find the dimensions of the room.
Geometry Problem: A square cement slab is to be surrounded by a 2-foot brick border. If the total area is
to be 121 square feet, what are the dimensions of the cement slab?
Projectile Problem: A projectile is launched from a roof 80 feet high at an initial velocity of 64 feet per
second. How long will it take the projectile to land on the ground?

Projectile Problem: Old fashioned large caliber handguns (45 Colt, 44 S+W) shoot a heavy bullet without
a lot of gun powder behind it. Muzzle velocities for these weapons average 1,000 feet per second. If a
handgun is shot up into the air from the ground how long will it take to bullet to come back to the ground?
(Wind and air resistance are not part of this calculation)

Projectile Problem: Using the previous problem, how high is the bullet at t = 30 seconds?
Projectile Problem: If a rocket is shot straight up with an initial velocity of 48 feet per second, then its
height h, in feet, after tseconds is given by\

a. How high is the rocket 1/2 second after it is launched?

b. When is the rocket exactly 32 feet above the ground?
c. When will the rocket hit the ground?
Word Problem: Find a polynomial that gives the area of a circle of radius x with a square, whose
diagonal measures 2x, cut from it.