Quadratic Functions

How Parabolas Open A parabola will open upward if the value of a in your equations is positive-this type of parabola will have a minimum A parabola will open downward if the value of a is negative-this type of parabola will have a maximum

Vertex The maximum and minimum point of a parabola is called the vertex The vertex is the lowest or highest point on the parabola

Symmetry All parabolas will have a line of symmetry The line of symmetry of a parabola is called the axis of symmetry The axis of symmetry separates the parabola so that each side is identical to the other

Axis of Symmetry

Graphing Parabolas by Hand

Practice

Solutions to Quadratic Equations Solutions to quadratic equations are called roots or zeros. The roots or zeros are also known as x- intercepts.

Solutions to Quadratic Equations You can have two roots, double roots, or no real root solutions to quadratic equations When would you expect to see – Two roots? – Double roots? – No real roots?

Find the Roots