Identifying Characteristics of Quadratic Functions

Let's begin by finding the vertex of the parabola, which is on the axis of symmetry and is the highest or lowest of the curve.

The parabola opens upward, and therefore its vertex is the minimum point. We see that the vertex is $(\text{-}2,\text{-}12).$ Let's now find the axis of symmetry, which is the vertical line through the vertex that divides the parabola into congruent halves.

The equation of the axis of symmetry is $x=\text{-}2.$ Finally, we will find the $y\text{-}$intercept, knowing that it is the point where the graph intercepts the $y\text{-}$axis.

As we can see, the $y\text{-}$intercept is located at $(0,\text{-}4).$