Graphing Quadratics

Front

What is a vertex?

Back

The maximum or minimum of the graph.

Front

What is the standard form of a quadratic function?

Back

ax² + bx + c = 0

Front

In the equation y = -x² + 6, which is the c value?

Back

6

Front

All parabolas contain a vertex. When it opens up, this point is called a what?

Back

Minimum

Front

How many solutions does the graph of a quadratic equation have?

Back

It can have one, two, or no solutions.

Front

What is the axis of symmetry in a parabola?

Back

A vertical line that divides the parabola into two mirror images.

Front

What does the 'a' value in the quadratic equation y = ax² + bx + c determine?

Back

The direction and width of the parabola.

Front

What is the y-intercept of a quadratic function?

Back

The point where the graph crosses the y-axis, found by setting x=0.

Front

What is the significance of the discriminant in a quadratic equation?

Back

It determines the number of real solutions: positive (two solutions), zero (one solution), negative (no solutions).

Front

What does it mean for a parabola to open upwards?

Back

The 'a' value in the equation y = ax² + bx + c is positive.