Question

Identify the vertex, axis of symmetry, and direction of the graph of each function. Compare the width of the graph to the width of the graph of f(x)=x^2

Answer 1

Answers:

• Vertex = (2, -4)
• Axis of symmetry is x = 2
• Direction: Opens upward

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Explanation:

Compare the equation

$y = (x-2)^2 - 4$

to the vertex form

$y = a(x-h)^2 + k$

we have:

• a = 1
• h = 2
• k = -4

The vertex is located at (h,k) = (2, -4). Nice job on getting the correct answer for the vertex.

The axis of symmetry is x = 2 since the axis of symmetry goes through the vertex. It's the vertical mirror line.

Because a = 1 is positive, the parabola opens upward. It forms a bowl shape. The vertex is the lowest point.

If a < 0, then the parabola would open downward and have a highest point.