Question 15590
 (8, 102), a y-intercept of (0, 98.6) and a zero of (16,0)? I have tried to solve the equation -(b/2a) =8, but that hasn't worked out well. I've also tried to solve for a or b since I know that c is equal to 98.6, but so far I cannot get the right equation. All I have is that 64a + 8b + 98.6 = 102 and 256a + 16b + 98.6 = 0.

 I think that you started from {{{y = ax^2 + bx + c }}}
 that is a long way for this question.

 Try to start up with {{{y - 102 = a(x  - 8)^2 }}}
 (same meaning as -b/2a =8 but easier)

 and use point (16,0) to get -102 = 64 a
 then we have a = - 51/32 and the equation of the parabola.
 
 to get check  if (0,98.6) [a very uugly number] is on the curve or not.
 If not the question is wrong. (I guess so) and so no solution.

 What happened ???
 Because (8,102) cannot be the vertex, the question with wrong given
 condition.

 Normally, if we know the vertex then one more point is enough to
 determine the parabolic function.

 So, unfortunately, I guess you have to solve
 this two ugly equations:

 64a + 8b + 98.6 = 102 ...(1)
 256a + 16b + 98.6 = 0....(2)

 By (2)-(1)*2: ..... a = ??? then b =???
 to find a & b.

 And the final solution means (8,102) is just a point on the parabola
 but not the vertex.
 
 Good luck!



 Kenny
 PS:  I think you can understand what I mean. 
 Normally, I don't answer such kinds of simple questions.
 Since, you showed your work, I am gald to guide you some short cut.