Quadratic Equation Gets a Google Doodle: Here’s What It Means and How It Is Used

Google is celebrating the quadratic equation with a special Doodle today, November 12. The Doodle highlights one of mathematics’ most recognised and widely applied formulas, bringing an everyday classroom concept to life through animation.

What Is a Quadratic Equation?

A quadratic equation is a second-degree polynomial in one variable, written as ax² + bx + c = 0, where a, b, and c are constants and a is not equal to zero. It is used to find the values of x, called roots or solutions, that make the equation true.

There are several methods to find these roots, such as factoring, completing the square, or using the quadratic formula x = (-b ± √(b² – 4ac)) / 2a. The discriminant (b² – 4ac) determines how many real or complex solutions exist.

Quadratic equations are important in physics, especially in explaining motion. They help calculate the path of moving objects, such as a basketball, a rocket, or a stream of water. Using the formula, one can find the maximum height, distance, or time of flight.

Engineers also use quadratic equations when designing bridges, arches, and curved structures. They are applied in vehicle braking systems to estimate stopping distances and in fluid dynamics to measure the speed of moving water or air.

Other Applications

Quadratic equations appear in other subjects such as geometry and chemistry. They help solve distance related problems using the Pythagorean theorem and can describe certain chemical reactions.

In business, quadratic equations help in profit and pricing analysis. When price changes affect the number of items sold, these equations can be used to find the price that maximises revenue or profit.

Google’s Mathematical Tribute

The animated Doodle, titled Learning the Quadratic Equation, was first launched in September in the US and the UK and has now reached India and several other regions. It turns the Google logo into smooth parabolic curves that represent the motion of a quadratic equation. The second “g” and “e” in the logo playfully kick a basketball-shaped “o” back and forth, surrounded by handwritten equations such as y = ax² + bx + c and x = (-b ± √(b² – 4ac)) / 2a.

Clicking on the Doodle takes users to a dedicated search page that explains the meaning, history, and uses of quadratic equations in everyday life.