biquadratic
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //baɪˈkwɒdrætɪk//
KK: /baɪˈkwɒdrætɪk/
adjective
Definition
Relating to the fourth degree, especially in mathematics, where it refers to equations or expressions that involve the fourth power of a variable.
Example
The biquadratic equation can be solved using various algebraic methods.
Conversation
I was struggling with that math problem yesterday.
Which one? Was it the biquadratic equation?
Yeah, that one really threw me off.
I can help you with it if you want! Those can be tricky.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
quartic
fourth
biquadrate
Antonyms
linear
quadratic
cubic
noun
Definition
A type of algebraic equation that has a degree of four, meaning the highest exponent of the variable is four.
Example
The mathematician solved the biquadratic to find the roots of the equation.
Conversation
Have you ever heard of a biquadratic equation?
Yeah, I learned about those in math class last year.
They seem so complicated! Do you remember how to solve one?
Root Explanation
Biquadratic → It is formed from "bi-" (meaning two) and "quadratus" (from Latin, meaning square). The term refers to a polynomial of degree four, which can be thought of as involving two squares.
Memory Tip
Think of 'bi-' meaning two and 'quadratic' relating to squares — a biquadratic is a polynomial that involves two squares.
Visually Confused Words
quadratic
quadratics
quadratical