Converting Quadratic Equations to Standard Form

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on converting the quadratic equation y = x^2 + 8x + 20 into standard form. The correct standard form is y = (x + 4)^2 + 4, achieved by completing the square. The transformation reveals that the parabola is shifted upward by 4 units and to the left by 4 units from its standard position. Participants confirm that the derived standard form is accurate, indicating a potential issue with the online submission system.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quadratic equations
  • Knowledge of completing the square technique
  • Familiarity with the standard form of parabolas
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
NEXT STEPS
  • Practice converting various quadratic equations to standard form
  • Explore the implications of vertex form on graphing parabolas
  • Learn about the effects of coefficients on the shape and position of parabolas
  • Investigate common errors in online math submissions and how to troubleshoot them
USEFUL FOR

Students learning algebra, educators teaching quadratic functions, and anyone seeking to master the conversion of quadratic equations to standard form.

quickclick330
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Change the equation to standard form.

y = x^2 + 8x + 20


I thought this was the standard form for parabolas?? I tried this as the answer but it said it was wrong

y = (x+4)^2 +4

Thanks for the help! :-)
 
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Complete the Square to the general form of the equation (and then undo this) and you will have something which is factorable. For your exercise, you want to add and subtract (8/2)^2 , and I will leave the rest of this for your effort to continue.
 
okay so completing the square gives me

y = x^2 +8x + 20 + 16 - 16
y = (x^2 + 8x +16) + 4
then factor...

y = (x + 4)^2 + 4

which is exactly what I got before?
 
quickclick330 said:
okay so completing the square gives me

y = x^2 +8x + 20 + 16 - 16
y = (x^2 + 8x +16) + 4
then factor...

y = (x + 4)^2 + 4

which is exactly what I got before?

That appears to be correct. That IS the standard form for your equation given in your exercise. The parabola has been shifted upward by 4 units and to the left by 4 units from standard position.
 
okay thanks...I'll ask the teacher then, its an online submission homework so maybe somethings wrong. hopefully.
 

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