When figuring out quadratic functions, there are a few important features to look for. Here’s how you can spot them easily:
Standard Form: Quadratic functions usually look like this:
( f(x) = ax^2 + bx + c )
Here, ( a ), ( b ), and ( c ) are just numbers. If you spot the ( x^2 ) part, you’ve found a quadratic function!
Graph Shape: The graph of a quadratic function makes a shape called a parabola.
Degree: Quadratic functions have a degree of 2.
That means the highest number you see as an exponent on ( x ) is 2.
This is different from linear functions (which have a degree of 1) or cubic functions (which have a degree of 3).
Vertex: Every parabola has a special point called the vertex.
This is either the highest or lowest point on the graph.
You won’t find a vertex in linear functions or exponential functions.
By keeping these features in mind, you’ll quickly get good at spotting quadratic functions!
When figuring out quadratic functions, there are a few important features to look for. Here’s how you can spot them easily:
Standard Form: Quadratic functions usually look like this:
( f(x) = ax^2 + bx + c )
Here, ( a ), ( b ), and ( c ) are just numbers. If you spot the ( x^2 ) part, you’ve found a quadratic function!
Graph Shape: The graph of a quadratic function makes a shape called a parabola.
Degree: Quadratic functions have a degree of 2.
That means the highest number you see as an exponent on ( x ) is 2.
This is different from linear functions (which have a degree of 1) or cubic functions (which have a degree of 3).
Vertex: Every parabola has a special point called the vertex.
This is either the highest or lowest point on the graph.
You won’t find a vertex in linear functions or exponential functions.
By keeping these features in mind, you’ll quickly get good at spotting quadratic functions!