When we look at linear and quadratic functions, we can see some important differences:

1. Graph Shape:

   • Linear functions (like $y = mx + b$) make straight lines.
   • Quadratic functions (like $y = ax^2 + bx + c$) create curved shapes called parabolas. These can open up or down.

2. Degree:

   • Linear functions have a degree of 1 because they use only one power of the variable.
   • Quadratic functions have a degree of 2 because they include a variable that is squared.

3. Intercepts:

   • Linear functions have one point where they cross the y-axis, called the y-intercept.
   • Quadratic functions can have two, one, or none depending on how they are positioned.

These differences really affect how the graphs look and how we solve problems!