Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Vertex of a Quadratic Function
The vertex of a quadratic function is the highest or lowest point on the graph, depending on the direction of the parabola. For the function f(x) = a(x-h)^2 + k, the vertex is given by the point (h, k). In this case, the vertex helps determine the shape and position of the parabola, which is crucial for sketching the graph.
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Axis of Symmetry
The axis of symmetry is a vertical line that divides the parabola into two mirror-image halves. For a quadratic function in vertex form, the axis of symmetry can be found using the x-coordinate of the vertex, expressed as x = h. This line is essential for accurately sketching the graph and understanding the function's behavior.
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Domain and Range of Quadratic Functions
The domain of a quadratic function is the set of all possible input values (x-values), which is typically all real numbers for parabolas. The range, however, depends on the vertex; if the parabola opens upwards, the range starts from the y-coordinate of the vertex to positive infinity, and if it opens downwards, it extends from negative infinity to the y-coordinate of the vertex. Understanding the domain and range is vital for interpreting the function's output.
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Domain & Range of Transformed Functions