Quadratic Functions

Introduction

Quadratic functions, defined by the equation f(x) = ax² + bx + c, are fundamental in algebra. They represent parabolas in a Cartesian plane, with applications in physics, engineering, and many fields of mathematics.

Understanding the Quadratic Function

The coefficients a, b, and c affect the shape and position of the parabola:

• Coefficient a: Determines the direction (upward or downward) and the width of the parabola.
• Coefficient b: Affects the position of the vertex along the x-axis.
• Coefficient c: Indicates the y-intercept of the parabola.

Conclusion

Quadratic functions reveal essential properties in mathematics through their unique shape and character. Understanding their behavior in graphs deepens our comprehension of algebraic expressions and their applications.