Parabolas in Vertex Form

Front

What is the vertex of a parabola in vertex form?

Back

The vertex is the point (h, k) in the vertex form of a parabola, represented as y = a(x - h)² + k.

Front

What does the 'a' value in the vertex form of a parabola indicate?

Back

The 'a' value determines the direction the parabola opens: if 'a' is positive, it opens upwards; if 'a' is negative, it opens downwards.

Front

How do you find the axis of symmetry for a parabola in vertex form?

Back

The axis of symmetry is the vertical line x = h, where (h, k) is the vertex.

Front

What is the general vertex form of a parabola?

Back

The vertex form of a parabola is y = a(x - h)² + k.

Front

What does it mean if a parabola opens upwards?

Back

If a parabola opens upwards, it has a minimum point at the vertex.

Front

What does it mean if a parabola opens downwards?

Back

If a parabola opens downwards, it has a maximum point at the vertex.

Front

How can you determine if the vertex is a maximum or minimum?

Back

If 'a' is positive, the vertex is a minimum; if 'a' is negative, the vertex is a maximum.

Front

What is the significance of the vertex in a parabola?

Back

The vertex is the highest or lowest point of the parabola, depending on its direction.

Front

How do you convert standard form to vertex form?

Back

You can convert standard form to vertex form by completing the square.

Front

What is the effect of changing the 'k' value in the vertex form?

Back

Changing the 'k' value shifts the parabola up or down on the graph.