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Google Doodle turns spotlight on the quadratic equation: The formula behind every curve explained

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On November 12, 2025, Google is highlighting one of the most famous math formulas in the world. Its doodle in India features the quadratic equation ax² + bx + c = 0. The doodle shows how this simple equation appears in physics, engineering, sports, and even business.

Clicking the doodle leads to Google’s Gemini AI. It shows how the quadratic equation models the motion of a basketball. Users can plug in numbers for speed, time, and height, and see the ball’s path change. This makes it easy to see how a classroom formula works in real life.
From classroom to basketball courtThe quadratic equation is a key topic in algebra. Many students find it challenging at first, but it describes many real-world situations.


In physics, it shows the path of objects in motion. Engineers use it to design bridges, roller coasters, and ramps. Architects use it to calculate curves in buildings. In business, it helps calculate profit, cost, and revenue curves.


For example, the height of a basketball in the air can be written as:
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Here, h is height, g is gravity, v₀ is initial speed, and h₀ is starting height. The resulting parabola is the same shape that shows up when you graph a quadratic equation on paper.
A formula with historyThe quadratic equation has been around for centuries. Ancient mathematicians in Babylon, Egypt, and India work on second-degree equations. Indian mathematician Brahmagupta writes about methods to solve them in the 7th century.

The modern quadratic formula is:
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It gives the exact values of x for any quadratic equation. Changing the numbers for a, b, and c changes the curve. This simple formula solves countless problems in science, engineering, and economics.
Why Google highlights itGoogle first shows this doodle in the United States in September 2025. It reaches India on November 12.

By featuring this formula, Google is showing that math is not just something in textbooks. Teachers say it helps students connect classroom lessons to real-life examples. The doodle also reminds students that formulas have practical applications and are part of many professions.
Making math visibleSchools are using interactive lessons and apps to make math easier to understand. Seeing a parabola in a basketball shot or a fountain helps students connect numbers to the real world.

Students can experiment with the quadratic equation by changing the values of a, b, and c. This shows how the curve becomes steeper, wider, or moves up and down. It is a simple activity that brings algebra to life.
Fun facts about quadratic equations
  • The word “quadratic” comes from quadratus, which means square in Latin.
  • Quadratic equations describe the paths of thrown objects, arches in architecture, and even satellite orbits.
  • Parabolas, the curves made by quadratic equations, are used in designing satellite dishes and car headlights to focus signals and light.
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