Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Quadratic Functions
A quadratic function is a polynomial function of degree two, typically expressed in the form f(x) = ax^2 + bx + c. The graph of a quadratic function is a parabola, which can open upwards or downwards depending on the sign of the coefficient 'a'. Understanding the general shape and properties of parabolas is essential for sketching their graphs.
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Vertex and Axis of Symmetry
The vertex of a parabola is the highest or lowest point on the graph, depending on its orientation. The axis of symmetry is a vertical line that passes through the vertex, dividing the parabola into two mirror-image halves. For a quadratic function in standard form, the vertex can be found using the formula x = -b/(2a), and the axis of symmetry is given by the equation x = -b/(2a).
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Domain and Range
The domain of a function refers to all possible input values (x-values) for which the function is defined, while the range refers to all possible output values (y-values) that the function can produce. For quadratic functions, the domain is typically all real numbers, while the range depends on the vertex's position and the direction the parabola opens. Understanding these concepts is crucial for analyzing the behavior of the function.
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