How come the answer to this is "no solution"?
x^2 +4x +1 = 0

Question

pottersheep · Answer

I know it isnt factorable......but cant you plug it into the quadratic equation?

precal · Answer

This quadratic has 2 solutions:
$$(-4\pm \sqrt{12})/2$$

In general, quadratics have 3 possible solutions (depending on how many times the function crosses the x-axis)
1) one solution  eg $$(x-3)^2=0$$ the solution is x=3 (double root)
2) two solutions eg $$x^2-4=0$$  the solutions are x=2 and x=-2
3) no solutions (look for the negative number underneath the square root symbol) and the function does not cross the x axis.

pottersheep · Answer

It has two solutions? ergh but my answer sheet ssays none! Thanks

precal · Answer

Look at the graph.

pottersheep · Answer

There is no graph :S I'll review my notes now

precal · Answer

Do you have a graphing calculator?  You could use winplot (it is a free software that allows you to view graphs)

pottersheep · Answer

I dont have a graphing calculator but I'll go google up winplot ~~ Thanks again

precal · Answer

google   online graphing calculator or something like that