# Mathematics for Chemistry/Functions

## Functions as tools in chemistry

In order to find the solutions to the general form of a quadratic equation,

${\displaystyle ax^{2}+bx+c=0}$

there is a formula

${\displaystyle x={\frac {-b\pm {\sqrt {(b^{2}-4ac)}}}{2a}}}$

(Notice the line over the square root has the same priority as a bracket. Of course we all know by now that ${\displaystyle {\sqrt {a+b}}}$ is not equal to ${\displaystyle {\sqrt {a}}+{\sqrt {b}}}$ 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:

${\displaystyle 2x^{2}-14x+9}$

${\displaystyle 1.56(x^{2}+3.67x+0.014)}$

Notice the scope or range of the bracket.

${\displaystyle 2x^{2}-4x+2}$

${\displaystyle -45.1(1.2[A]^{2}-57.9[A]+4.193)}$

Notice here that the variable is a concentration, not the ubiquitous ${\displaystyle x}$.