Algebra 2 Review

Front

What is a quadratic function?

Back

A quadratic function is a polynomial function of degree 2, typically written in the form f(x) = ax² + bx + c, where a, b, and c are constants and a ≠ 0.

Front

What is the vertex of a parabola?

Back

The vertex of a parabola is the highest or lowest point on the graph, depending on whether it opens upwards or downwards. It can be found using the formula (-b/2a, f(-b/2a)).

Front

How do you find the roots of a quadratic equation?

Back

The roots of a quadratic equation can be found using the quadratic formula: x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / (2a).

Front

What is the discriminant in a quadratic equation?

Back

The discriminant is the part of the quadratic formula under the square root, given by b² - 4ac. It determines the nature of the roots: if positive, there are two real roots; if zero, one real root; if negative, no real roots.

Front

What is the difference between linear and quadratic functions?

Back

Linear functions have a constant rate of change and are represented by a straight line (y = mx + b), while quadratic functions have a variable rate of change and are represented by a parabola.

Front

What is factoring in algebra?

Back

Factoring is the process of breaking down an expression into simpler components (factors) that, when multiplied together, give the original expression.

Front

What is the vertex form of a quadratic function?

Back

The vertex form of a quadratic function is f(x) = a(x - h)² + k, where (h, k) is the vertex of the parabola.

Front

What is a polynomial?

Back

A polynomial is a mathematical expression that consists of variables raised to whole number powers and coefficients, combined using addition, subtraction, and multiplication.

Front

What is the difference of squares?

Back

The difference of squares is a special factoring pattern that states a² - b² = (a - b)(a + b).

Front

What is a rational function?

Back

A rational function is a function that can be expressed as the ratio of two polynomials, typically in the form f(x) = P(x)/Q(x), where P and Q are polynomials.