Graphs of Quadratics

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to the graphs of quadratic functions, including definitions, forms of quadratics, and characteristics of their graphs.

Quadratic Function

A type of polynomial function with a highest degree of 2.

Parabola

The U-shaped graph that represents a quadratic function.

Standard Form Quadratic

The equation of a quadratic function in the form y = ax² + bx + c.

Factored Form Quadratic

The equation of a quadratic function in the form y = (x - R1)(x - R2).

Vertex Form

The equation of a quadratic function in the form y = a(x - h)² + k.

Leading Coefficient (LC)

The coefficient a in the quadratic function that determines the direction of the parabola.

Vertex

The highest or lowest point of a parabola.

Axis of Symmetry

A vertical line that divides the parabola into two mirror-image halves.

Domain

All of the x-values that the graph touches.

Range

All of the y-values that the graph touches.

Increasing

The interval where the graph goes up as you move from left to right.

Decreasing

The interval where the graph goes down as you move from left to right.

Absolute Maximum

The highest point of the graph when the ends are going down.

Absolute Minimum

The lowest point of the graph when the ends are going up.

End Behavior

The direction the graph approaches as x goes towards positive or negative infinity.

Average Rate of Change

How much y is changing over a given interval of x.