Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
4. Polynomial Functions
Quadratic Functions
Problem 15a
Textbook Question
In Exercises 9–16, find the coordinates of the vertex for the parabola defined by the given quadratic function. f(x)=−x^2−2x+8
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1
Identify the standard form of a quadratic function, which is f(x) = ax^2 + bx + c.
Recognize that the given function is f(x) = -x^2 - 2x + 8, where a = -1, b = -2, and c = 8.
Use the vertex formula for a parabola, which is x = -b/(2a), to find the x-coordinate of the vertex.
Substitute a = -1 and b = -2 into the vertex formula to calculate the x-coordinate.
Substitute the x-coordinate back into the original function f(x) to find the y-coordinate of the vertex.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Quadratic Functions
A quadratic function is a polynomial function of degree two, typically expressed in the form f(x) = ax^2 + bx + c, where a, b, and c are constants. The graph of a quadratic function is a parabola, which can open upwards or downwards depending on the sign of the coefficient 'a'. In this case, since 'a' is negative, the parabola opens downwards.
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Vertex of a Parabola
The vertex of a parabola is the highest or lowest point on its graph, depending on whether it opens upwards or downwards. For a quadratic function in standard form, the vertex can be found using the formula x = -b/(2a). This x-coordinate can then be substituted back into the function to find the corresponding y-coordinate, giving the vertex's coordinates.
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Completing the Square
Completing the square is a method used to convert a quadratic function from standard form to vertex form, which is f(x) = a(x-h)^2 + k, where (h, k) is the vertex. This technique involves manipulating the equation to create a perfect square trinomial, making it easier to identify the vertex and analyze the parabola's properties.
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