Graphing Parabolas in Vertex Form Practice

Front

What is the vertex of a parabola in vertex form?

Back

The vertex is the highest or lowest point of the parabola, represented as (h, k) in the vertex form equation y = a(x - h)² + k.

Front

What does it mean if a parabola opens upwards?

Back

A parabola opens upwards if the coefficient 'a' in the vertex form equation y = a(x - h)² + k is positive.

Front

What does it mean if a parabola opens downwards?

Back

A parabola opens downwards if the coefficient 'a' in the vertex form equation y = a(x - h)² + k is negative.

Front

How do you find the axis of symmetry for a parabola?

Back

The axis of symmetry can be found using the formula x = h, where (h, k) is the vertex of the parabola.

Front

What is the significance of the y-intercept in a parabola?

Back

The y-intercept is the point where the parabola crosses the y-axis, found by setting x = 0 in the equation.

Front

How do you determine if a parabola has a maximum or minimum value?

Back

If the parabola opens upwards, it has a minimum value at the vertex. If it opens downwards, it has a maximum value at the vertex.

Front

What is the vertex form of a parabola?

Back

The vertex form of a parabola is given by the equation y = a(x - h)² + k, where (h, k) is the vertex.

Front

What does the 'a' value in the vertex form indicate?

Back

The 'a' value indicates the width and direction of the parabola. A larger absolute value of 'a' makes the parabola narrower.

Front

How can you identify the vertex from the equation y = -2(x + 1)² + 3?

Back

The vertex is (-1, 3) because it is in the form y = a(x - h)² + k, where h = -1 and k = 3.

Front

What is the relationship between the vertex and the zeros of a parabola?

Back

The vertex is the midpoint of the zeros (x-intercepts) of the parabola if it has real zeros.