How to write the quadratic function.

In summary, a quadratic function y with a maximum value of 4 and an axis of symmetry at x=-2 can be written in vertex form as y(x)=-a(x+2)^2+4, where a is a negative number. Another way to express this is y(x)=a(x+2)^2+4, where a is less than 0.
  • #1
mathlearn
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0
Write a quadratic function y whose maximum value is 4 and the axis of symmetry of the graph is x=-2.

Suggestions?
 
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  • #2
Where should the vertex be? Recall the vertex form of a quadratic may be written as:

\(\displaystyle y(x)=a(x-h)^2+k\)

where the vertex is at $(h,k)$. Since the quadratic is to have a maximum, what can we say about $a$?
 
  • #3
MarkFL said:
Where should the vertex be? Recall the vertex form of a quadratic may be written as:

\(\displaystyle y(x)=a(x-h)^2+k\)

where the vertex is at $(h,k)$. Since the quadratic is to have a maximum, what can we say about $a$?

Since the quadratic is to have a maximum , 'a' should be a negative.

\(\displaystyle y(x)=-a(x+2)^2+4\)

Correct?
 
  • #4
mathlearn said:
Since the quadratic is to have a maximum , 'a' should be a negative.

\(\displaystyle y(x)=-a(x+2)^2+4\)

Correct?

Yes, as long as $0<a$, then you have correctly given the family of quadratics that meet the stated criteria. :D

Alternately, you could state:

\(\displaystyle y(x)=a(x+2)^2+4\) where $a<0$.
 
  • #5
Thank you very much :)
 

Related to How to write the quadratic function.

1. What is a quadratic function?

A quadratic function is a mathematical expression that contains a variable raised to the second power (x^2). It is commonly written in the form f(x) = ax^2 + bx + c, where a, b, and c are constants. It represents a parabolic curve and is used to model various physical phenomena in science.

2. How do I write a quadratic function in standard form?

To write a quadratic function in standard form, you need to rearrange the terms so that the variable is in descending order (x^2, x, constant). For example, if you have f(x) = 3x^2 + 2x + 1, the standard form would be f(x) = 3x^2 + 2x + 1.

3. What is the significance of the constant term in a quadratic function?

The constant term (c) in a quadratic function represents the y-intercept of the parabola, which is the point where the curve intersects the y-axis. It also affects the shape of the parabola and can shift it up or down.

4. How do I find the vertex of a quadratic function?

The vertex of a quadratic function can be found by using the formula x = -b/2a, where a and b are the coefficients of the x^2 and x terms, respectively. Once you have the x-value, you can plug it back into the function to find the y-value.

5. Can I graph a quadratic function without using a calculator?

Yes, you can graph a quadratic function by plotting points and connecting them to create a smooth curve. To find the points, you can use the x-intercepts (where the function crosses the x-axis), the vertex, and a few other points. However, using a graphing calculator can make the process much easier and more accurate.

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