SOLUTION: If $t$ is a real number, what is the maximum possible value of the expression $-t^2 + 8t -4$?

Algebra ->  Quadratic Equations and Parabolas -> SOLUTION: If $t$ is a real number, what is the maximum possible value of the expression $-t^2 + 8t -4$?      Log On


   

Question 1040892: If $t$ is a real number, what is the maximum possible value of the expression $-t^2 + 8t -4$?
Answer by rothauserc(4718) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
f(t) = -t^2 + 8t -4 is a parabola that curves downward
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the t value for the vertex is -8 / -2 (-b/2a) = 4
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now substitute t = 4 in f(t)
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f(4) = -16 + 32 - 4 = 12
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the max possible value for f(t) is 12
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