Who is asking: Student
Level: Secondary

Question:
I am using Houghton Mifflin's Precalculus with Limits book, 2nd edition. However, the first chapter encompasses Algebra review, and I am stuck on a problem. All that's required is to solve the following and verify using a calculator:
3y²+6y+2=0
I have solved the problem using the quadratic formula, but from what I remember, the quadratic formula is used in the case of equations following the AX²+BX+C=0 pattern. As the problem I am attempting uses a y-variable, can I still use the quadratic formula? Since I am not sure what route to take in solving this problem, I am hoping you can assist me.

Thank you.

Hi,

The quadratic formula is valid, regardless of the letter you use for the variable. At times in my classes I use a question mark rather than a letter, to emphasize that the symbol stands for something I don't know.

3?² +6? +2 = 0

Harley

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