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, where a, b, and c are constants. 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 standard form of a quadratic function is essential for analyzing its properties, including its vertex.
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Vertex of a Parabola
The vertex of a parabola is the point where the curve changes direction, representing either the maximum or minimum value of the quadratic function. For a parabola defined by the equation f(x) = ax^2 + bx + c, the x-coordinate of the vertex can be found using the formula x = -b/(2a). The corresponding y-coordinate can then be calculated by substituting this x value back into the function.
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Completing the Square
Completing the square is a method used to transform a quadratic function into vertex form, which is f(x) = a(x-h)^2 + k, where (h, k) is the vertex. This technique involves rewriting the quadratic expression by adding and subtracting the same value to create a perfect square trinomial. This form makes it easier to identify the vertex and analyze the graph of the function.
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