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Intermediate Algebra – Student Workbook – Second Edition 2013

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Lesson 5a - Introduction to Quadratic Functions<br />

Mini-Lesson<br />

VERTEX and the AXIS of SYMMETRY for a QUADRATIC FUNCTION<br />

Given a quadratic function,<br />

( )<br />

The VERTEX is the lowest or highest point (ordered pair) of the parabola<br />

b<br />

To find the x-coordinate, identify coefficients a and b then compute <br />

2a<br />

b<br />

To find the y-coordinate, plug the x-coordinate into the function (i.e. evaluate f ( ) )<br />

2a<br />

The Vertex is written as an ordered pair (x,y). Another way to look at this is:<br />

Vertex = ( ( ))<br />

The AXIS OF SYMMETRY is the vertical line that divides the parabola in half.<br />

b<br />

Equation x = <br />

2a<br />

Problem 4<br />

WORKED EXAMPLE <strong>–</strong> QUADRATIC FUNCTIONS: VERTEX/AXIS OF<br />

SYMMETRY<br />

Given the Quadratic Function f(x) = x 2 + 4x <strong>–</strong> 2, generate a graph of the function, and plot/label<br />

the vertex and axis of symmetry on the graph.<br />

Identity the coefficients a, b, c: a = 1, b = 4, c = -2<br />

Determine the coordinates of the Vertex:<br />

x-coordinate:<br />

( )<br />

( )<br />

y-coordinate:<br />

( )<br />

( ) ( ) ( )<br />

( )<br />

( )<br />

Vertex ordered pair: (-2, -6)<br />

Identify the Axis of Symmetry Equation:<br />

b<br />

Equation x = = -2 so x = -2 is the Axis of Symmetry.<br />

2a<br />

Scottsdale Community College Page 187 <strong>Intermediate</strong> <strong>Algebra</strong>

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