SOLUTION: I really need help with these two questions, these math questions are frustrating me. 1) In case of a quadratic function, why are there two x-intercepts and one y-intercept?

Algebra ->  Quadratic Equations and Parabolas -> SOLUTION: I really need help with these two questions, these math questions are frustrating me. 1) In case of a quadratic function, why are there two x-intercepts and one y-intercept?       Log On


   

Question 9065: I really need help with these two questions, these math questions are frustrating me.

1) In case of a quadratic function, why are there two x-intercepts and one y-intercept?
2) What is the meaning of “axis” in regards to a quadratic function?
Answer by longjonsilver(2297) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
most problems with quadratics that students have stem from the fact that they do not really know what they are doing -- you just do "stuff" because you are told to without understanding.

Do you know what a quadratic equation looks like if it is plotted? Its general shape is either graph%28200%2C200%2C-2%2C2%2C-1%2C5%2Cx%5E2%29 or graph%28200%2C200%2C-2%2C2%2C-5%2C1%2C-x%5E2%29.

Now, just look at that shape...move it around. Move it up. Move it down. Move it left and right.

How many times will that shape cross the y-axis? Answer is JUST ONCE.
How many times will that shape cross the x-axis? Answer is: mainly twice. Sometimes never and occasionally once (if the curve just touches the x-axis).

That is your answer.

2. Axis means the x- and y-axes as per any graph you draw.

Hope this helps

jon.