Big Ideas Math Algebra 2, 2014
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Big Ideas Math Algebra 2, 2014 View details
2. Characteristics of Quadratic Functions
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Exercise 7 Page 61

Identify the vertex first. Then use it to find the axis of symmetry.

Vertex: (2,4)
Axis of Symmetry: x=2
Graph:

Practice makes perfect

We want to draw the graph of the given quadratic function. Note that the function is already written in vertex form, f(x)=a(x-h)^2+k, where a, h, and k are either positive or negative numbers. y=-4(x-2)^2+4 To draw the graph, we will follow four steps.

  1. Identify the constants a, h, and k.
  2. Plot the vertex (h,k) and draw the axis of symmetry x=h.
  3. Plot any point on the curve and its reflection across the axis of symmetry.
  4. Sketch the curve.

    Let's get started.

    Step 1

    We will first identify the constants a, h, and k. Recall that if a<0, the parabola will open downwards. Conversely, if a>0, the parabola will open upwards. Vertex Form:& f(x)= a(x- h)^2+k Function:& y= -4(x- 2)^2+4 We can see that a= -4, h= 2, and k=4. Since a is less than 0, the parabola will open downwards.

    Step 2

    Let's now plot the vertex ( h,k) and draw the axis of symmetry x= h. Since we already know the values of h and k, we know that the vertex is ( 2,4). Therefore, the axis of symmetry is the vertical line x= 2.

    Step 3

    We will now plot a point on the curve by choosing an x-value and calculating its corresponding y-value. Let's try x=1.
    y=-4(x-2)^2+4
    y=-4( 1-2)^2+4
    â–Ľ
    Simplify right-hand side
    y=-4(-1)^2+4
    y=-4(1)+4
    y=-4+4
    y=0
    When x=1, we have y=0. Thus, the point (1,0) lies on the curve. Let's plot this point and reflect it across the axis of symmetry.

    Note that both points have the same y-coordinate.

    Step 4

    Finally, we will sketch the parabola which passes through the three points. Remember not to use a straightedge for this!