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It is important to note that we do not need to graph the parabola to identify the desired information. Let's compare the general formula for the graphing form to our equation. General Formula:f(x)=& a(x- h)^2+k Equation:f(x)=& - 2(x- 2)^2+6 We can see that a= - 2, h= 2, and k=6. The vertex of a quadratic function written in graphing form is the point ( h,k). For this exercise, we have h= 2 and k=6. Therefore, the vertex of the given equation is ( 2,6).
Before we determine if the vertex is the maximum or minimum point recall that if a>0 the parabola opens upwards. Conversely, if a<0 the parabola opens downwards.
In the given function we have a= - 2, which is less than 0. Thus, the parabola opens downwards and we will have a maximum value. The vertex is always the lowest or the highest point on the graph. Therefore, in this case, the vertex represents the maximum value of the function.
Let's go through these steps one at a time.
(a-b)^2=a^2-2ab+b^2
Distribute - 2
Add terms
x= 2
Subtract term
Calculate power
Zero Property of Multiplication
Add terms
The y-intercept of the graph of a quadratic function written in standard form is given by the value of c. Thus, the point where our graph intercepts the y-axis is (0,- 2). Let's plot this point and its reflection across the axis of symmetry.
We can now draw the graph of the function. Since a=- 2, which is negative, the parabola will open downwards. Let's connect the three points with a smooth curve.
We found that the vertex is (2,6) and it represents the maximum value of the function. Thus, our results in Part A were correct.