Final answer:
The apparent contradiction in quadratic equations is explained by the fact that the rule of one output value for a function applies to functions as a whole, not individual equations. Each solution of a quadratic equation represents a distinct function.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct explanation for the apparent contradiction in quadratic equations is that the rule of one output value for a function applies to functions as a whole, not individual equations. Each solution of a quadratic equation represents a distinct function. When we solve a quadratic equation, we are finding the x-values at which the quadratic function crosses the x-axis. These x-values are the roots of the equation and represent the inputs that result in a zero output for the function.