Section 3.1 - Quadratic Functions and Parabolas

Section Objectives

  1. Find the vertex, intercepts, and symmetry axis of a parabola.
  2. Write a quadratic function in vertex form.
  3. Solve application problems involving quadratic functions and parabolas.



Quadratic functions

A quadratic function is a 2nd degree polynomial function. Every quadratic function can be written in the form , where , , and are real numbers with .



The graph of a quadratic function is a smooth U-shaped curve called a parabola. The turning point at the tip of the U is called the vertex, and the graph is symmetric about the vertical line through the vertex.




Any quadratic function can be written in the equivalent vertex form

by using a process called completing the square.




Examples













For further help...

There are lots of resources available to help you with transformations.

  1. Do a Google search for "vertex form of parabola". Among other things, you will find some good Khan Academy videos.
  2. Use Desmos or Geogebra to graph parabolas and find vertices & intercepts.