Mathematics for Chemistry/Functions
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[edit] Functions as tools in chemistry
[edit] The quadratic formula
In order to find the solutions to the general form of a quadratic equation,
ax2 + bx + c = 0
there is a formula
(Notice the line over the square root has the same priority as a bracket. Of course we all know by now that 
is not equal to 
but errors of priority are among the most common algebra errors in practice).
There is a formula for a cubic equation but it is rather complicated and unlikely to be required for undergraduate-level study of chemistry. Cubic and higher equations occur often in chemistry, but if they do not factorise they are usually solved by computer.
Solve:
2x2 − 14x + 9
1.56(x2 + 3.67x + 0.014)
Notice the scope or range of the bracket.
2x2 − 4x + 2
− 45.1(1.2[A]2 − 57.9[A] + 4.193)
Notice here that the variable is a concentration, not the ubiquitous x.
