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 'a'. Understanding the general shape and properties of parabolas is essential for analyzing their characteristics.
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Vertex and Axis of Symmetry
The vertex of a quadratic function is the highest or lowest point on its graph, depending on whether the parabola opens downwards or upwards. The axis of symmetry is a vertical line that passes through the vertex, dividing the parabola into two mirror-image halves. For the function f(x) = -3x^2 - 12x - 1, the vertex can be found using the formula x = -b/(2a), which helps in determining the function's maximum or minimum value.
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Intercepts and Intervals of Increase/Decrease
The x-intercepts of a quadratic function are the points where the graph crosses the x-axis, found by solving f(x) = 0. The y-intercept is the point where the graph crosses the y-axis, determined by evaluating f(0). Additionally, the intervals of increase and decrease can be identified by analyzing the derivative or the vertex; for a downward-opening parabola, the function decreases on the interval to the left of the vertex and increases to the right.
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