I am learning basically how to graph quadratic equations. I dont really
understand how to find the coordinates of the vertex. I also don't understand
how to write an equation of the axis of symmetry. Can you please help me?
For the equation y or f(x) = a(x-h)2 + k
The vertex is this point: (h, k)
The equation of the axis of symmetry is this: x = h
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For the equation y or f(x) = ax2 + bx + c
The vertex is this point: ( -b/(2a), c - b2/(4a) )
The equation of the axis of symmetry is this: x = -b/(2a)
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Example 1: y = -4(x+4)2-3
Compare to y = a(x-h)2+k
-h = +4, so h = -4
k = -3.
The vertex is this point: (h, k) = (-4,-3)
The equation of the axis of symmetry is this: x = h, or x = -4
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Example 1: Find the vertex of f(x) = 2x2 - 12x + 19
Compare to f(x) = ax2 + bx + c
a = 2; b = -12; c = 19
The vertex is this point: ( -b/(2a), c - b2/(4a) ) =
( -(-12)/(2·2), 19 - (-12)2/(4·2) )
( 12/4, 19 - 144/8 ) =
( 3, 19 - 18) =
(3,1)
The equation of the axis of symmetry is this: x = -b/(2a)
x = -(-12)/(2·2)
x = 3
Edwin
AnlytcPhil@aol.com