Summary: Analysis of Quadratic Functions

Key Equations

Key Concepts

• The zeros, or [latex]x[/latex]-intercepts, are the points at which the parabola crosses the [latex]x[/latex]-axis. The [latex]y[/latex]-intercept is the point at which the parabola crosses the [latex]y[/latex]-axis.
• The vertex can be found from an equation representing a quadratic function.
• A quadratic function’s minimum or maximum value is given by the [latex]y[/latex]-value of the vertex.
• The minium or maximum value of a quadratic function can be used to determine the range of the function and to solve many kinds of real-world problems, including problems involving area and revenue.
• Some quadratic equations must be solved by using the quadratic formula.
• The vertex and the intercepts can be identified and interpreted to solve real-world problems.
• Some quadratic functions have complex roots.

Glossary

discriminant

the value under the radical in the quadratic formula, [latex]b^2-4ac[/latex], which tells whether the quadratic has real or complex roots

vertex

the point at which a parabola changes direction, corresponding to the minimum or maximum value of the quadratic function

vertex form of a quadratic function

another name for the standard form of a quadratic function

zeros

in a given function, the values of [latex]x[/latex] at which [latex]y=0[/latex], also called roots

Licenses & Attributions