We need at least three points to draw the graph of the related quadratic function.To draw the graph, we will first find the , (- b2a,f(- b2a)).Then, we will find a point on the curve and reflect it across the axis of symmetry. Let's start by calculating the x-coordinate of the vertex. To do so, we will substitute a= 3 and b= 12 into - b2a.
- b/2a
- 12/2( 3)
- 12/6
- 2
To find the y-coordinate of the vertex, we will substitute - 2 for x in the related function y=3x^2+12x+36.
y=3x^2+12x+36
y=3(- 2)^2+12( - 2) +36
y=3(4)+12(- 2) +36
y=12-24 +36
y=24
The vertex is (- 2,24). Note that the formula for the x-coordinate of the vertex is the same as the formula for the axis of symmetry, which is x=- 2. Now, we will choose an x-value and substitute it for x in the function. Let's try x=1.
y=3x^2+12x+36
y=3( 1)^2+12( 1)+36
y=51
The point (1,51) lies on the curve. Since the divides the graph into two mirror images, there exists another point on the oppositve side of the axis of symmetry with the same y-value.
Point
|
Reflection Across x=- 2
|
(1, 51)
|
(- 5, 51)
|
The vertex, along with the points, is helpful to graph a parabola.