Quadratic Explorer

Move the parabola around and look at the "c-value" in the quadratic function.[br]What appears to be true?

The c value is the y-intercept. The c value is one of the x-intercepts. The c value is the axis of symmetry.

What part of the quadratic equation changes when you move the parabola only left or right?

the a value the c value the b value

When the b value is positive it means the vertex of the parabola has...

...moved to the RIGHT of the y-axis. ...moved to the LEFT of the y-axis.

When is the b value 0?

The b value is 0 when the vertex of the parabola is still anywhere on the y-axis.

Does the b value change when the parabola moves up or down?

No. Yes.

What does the axis of symmetry value always exactly match?

The y value of the vertex. The a value of the quadratic function. The x value of the vertex. The c value of the quadratic function. The b value of the quadratic function.

Why does it make sense that the axis of symmetry value exactly matches the x value of the vertex?

It makes sense because the axis of symmetry always runs through the vertex and shares the same position along the x axis.

Move the parabola left and right. Compare the b value to the axis of symmetry value.[br][br]If someone tells you the b value, how do you think you can figure out the axis of symmetry value?

There is a special formula for this that Mr. Schep will tell you![br][br](You take the opposite of b and divide it by 2 times the a value!)

– gabe.schepergerdes

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