Quadratic Functions
Alyssa Carmitchel
Parabola Parts/Vocabulary
Parabola- The parabola is the u-shaped arc.
The Vortex- Where the parabola changes direction and starts to curve
Maximum/Minimum- The Maximum/Minimum is the highest/lowest point the parabola will reach.
The Roots- The Roots are the points where the Parabola intercepts the x-axis.
Notes on Maximums/Minimums
If the "a" in your problem is negative, the parabola has a maximum and opens down. If it is positive, it has a minimum and opens up.
Quadratic Function
The Parabola is the blue arc. The Vertex would be near the -6. The two red dots on the y-axis are the roots and they would be -2 and 3. This parabola would be a minimum.
Real World Example
The Gateway Arch is a good example of a Quadratic Function in real life. This would be a maximum.
Another Real World Example
The McDonalds sign is also a good example of a Quadratic Function. It would also be a maximum.
What I've learned
I've learned that a Quadratic Function is pretty much just labeling an arc. Not all Quadratic Functions have roots, because they don't all intercept the y-axis. I've learned what vortexes and roots are and when a parabola will be maximum or minimum.