Graph each function. See Examples 1 and 2.g(x) = 2x²
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Identify the type of function: The given function \( g(x) = 2x^2 \) is a quadratic function, which is a type of polynomial function.
Determine the general shape: Quadratic functions are parabolas. Since the coefficient of \( x^2 \) is positive (2 in this case), the parabola opens upwards.
Find the vertex: For the function \( g(x) = ax^2 + bx + c \), the vertex is at \( x = -\frac{b}{2a} \). Here, \( a = 2 \), \( b = 0 \), so the vertex is at \( x = 0 \). Substitute \( x = 0 \) into the function to find \( g(0) = 2(0)^2 = 0 \). Thus, the vertex is at the point (0, 0).
Determine the axis of symmetry: The axis of symmetry for a parabola \( y = ax^2 + bx + c \) is the vertical line \( x = -\frac{b}{2a} \). For this function, it is \( x = 0 \).
Plot additional points: Choose values for \( x \) (e.g., \( x = 1, -1, 2, -2 \)) and calculate corresponding \( g(x) \) values to plot points on the graph. For example, \( g(1) = 2(1)^2 = 2 \) and \( g(-1) = 2(-1)^2 = 2 \).
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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 g(x) = ax² + bx + c. The graph of a quadratic function is a parabola, which opens upwards if 'a' is positive and downwards if 'a' is negative. Understanding the general shape and properties of parabolas is essential for graphing quadratic functions.
The vertex of a parabola is the highest or lowest point on the graph, depending on the direction it opens. For the function g(x) = 2x², the vertex is at the origin (0,0) since there are no linear or constant terms. Identifying the vertex helps in sketching the graph accurately and understanding the function's minimum or maximum value.
The axis of symmetry for a parabola is a vertical line that divides the graph into two mirror-image halves. For the function g(x) = 2x², the axis of symmetry is the line x = 0. Knowing the axis of symmetry is crucial for graphing, as it allows for easier plotting of points and understanding the function's behavior.