Quadratic Key Features

Front

What is the vertex of a quadratic function?

Back

The highest or lowest point on the graph.

Front

What are the x-intercepts of a quadratic function also known as?

Back

Zeros.

Front

How do you find the x-value of the vertex in a quadratic function?

Back

Use the formula x = -b/(2a) from the standard form y = ax^2 + bx + c.

Front

What does the y-intercept represent in a quadratic function?

Back

The point where the graph intersects the y-axis, represented as (0, c) in the standard form.

Front

What is the standard form of a quadratic function?

Back

y = ax^2 + bx + c.

Front

What is the axis of symmetry in a quadratic function?

Back

A vertical line that divides the parabola into two mirror images, given by x = -b/(2a).

Front

What is the significance of the coefficient 'a' in a quadratic function?

Back

It determines the direction of the parabola (upward if a > 0, downward if a < 0) and affects the width of the parabola.

Front

What is the maximum height of a projectile modeled by a quadratic function?

Back

It occurs at the vertex of the parabola.

Front

How can you determine the number of x-intercepts a quadratic function has?

Back

By calculating the discriminant (b^2 - 4ac); if it's positive, there are 2 x-intercepts; if zero, 1; if negative, none.

Front

What is the formula to find the y-value of the vertex?

Back

Substitute the x-value of the vertex into the quadratic function.