Question

How many real solutions for x are there to the equation x2 + 3x + 8 = 0?

Answer 1

Since, this cannot be factored by simply looking at it. You will need to use the quadratic formula to find x-values.

Answer 2

Or you can graph it.

Answer 3

Oh nice, thanks I'd forgotten about the quadratic formula

Answer 4

The problem doesn't specify you can't graph it, or that you have to check this with equations.

Answer 5

Nicholas, have you tried graphing it?

Answer 6

the general rule, you are always solving it algebraically unless you are told to graph it.

Answer 7

Wait so the answer is 0 right?

Answer 8

but graphing is a method of doing it.

Answer 9

as well*

Answer 10

Hogwash. The general rule is graph first to get a visual idea of the equation.

Answer 11

Back before calculators, we did everything with equations. But in the calculator age, it's ridiculous to not use that tool.

Answer 12

What would be your method of graphing via "hand" or "calculator?"

Answer 13

Even if it says "use equations to show", you can use the graph to verify your answer.

Answer 14

I have a graphing calculator on my computer, on my phone, on my tablet. I can use one from the web. I'd first graph it with a calculator, at least to see the graph, so I know if the answer I get using the equations is correct.

Answer 15

can you do it without a graphing calculator?

Answer 16

Like I said, even if the teacher says "factor or quadratic formula", still use the calculator to verify your answer.

Answer 17

I can do it with the quadratic formula. But graphing on a calculator is a valid tool.

Answer 18

most professors today do not allow students to use a graphing calculator or a calculator of any sort, so it is best to do it algebraically.

Answer 19

Can you drive without looking at the road?

Answer 20

No it's not. It's best to know how to do it, but then use the graphing calc. to verify your answer: that's if the professor says no calculators allowed.

Answer 21

Can we all just recognize that one likes to do it algebraically when the other likes to verify it by graph

Answer 22

BTW, if a professor said no calculators, I'd find a different class or different school. Artificially handicapping people is ridiculous.

Answer 23

Sure, but I am telling you that graphing is a valid method, and something you shouldn't avoid. Even if the class is no calculators allowed, you can verify your homework or study problem answers by graphing.

Answer 24

Back in the war, we had rooms full of women doing all the calculations by hand. It was like a giant human computer. So when calculators were invented, we used them. It's a great tool.

Answer 25

Most professors only advises calculator for outside of class via examples and homework, but not for quizzes or exams. I am sorry if I offended you @crabbyoldgamer. Sorry for the lil drama in the post? @NicholasWong752

Answer 26

That's what I just said.