Finding the equations of a graph

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the equations of a piecewise function representing a roller coaster track, specifically focusing on two parabolas: one opening downward and the other opening upward. The transition point between the two parabolas occurs at x = 15.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the nature of the function, with some suggesting it may be cubic rather than parabolic. Others emphasize the need to identify the vertex of the parabolas to determine their equations.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the graph and questioning the accuracy of its representation. Some guidance has been offered regarding the potential forms of the equations, but no consensus has been reached on the correct approach.

Contextual Notes

There are concerns about the clarity of the graph, including improperly labeled axes and the quality of the drawing, which may hinder the identification of the equations.

Missionz12
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I am trying to do a College Algebra project and I am having difficulty findimg the two equations that make the piecewise function in the pictures below.

Letting y be the number of meters the track is above or below the ground
and x the number of meters horizontally from the high point, write the
equation/s expressing y in terms of x for the roller coaster track. The
parabola changes from turning down to turning up at x = 15.

ef47a3b5a9ab85de09af4efe115857fe5g.jpg
 
Last edited:
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Missionz12 said:
I am trying to do a College Algebra project by myself as my two partners are not available and I need to find the two equations that make the piecewise function in the pictures below.

Letting y be the number of meters the track is above or below the ground
and x the number of meters horizontally from the high point, write the
equation/s expressing y in terms of x for the roller coaster track. The
parabola changes from turning down to turning up at x = 15.
Are you given that it is a "parabola"? If so your graph can't possibly be right. A parabola is always concave upward or always concave downward.

If, instead, this might be cubic, which is what your graph looks like, then y= [itex]ax^3+ bx^2+ cx+ d[/itex] and putting in four values for x and y gives you four linear equations to solve for a, b, c, d.

ef47a3b5a9ab85de09af4efe115857fe5g.jpg
 
Last edited by a moderator:
It is TWO different parabolas thus a piecewise function, One parabola opening downward and one opening upward. The downward opening parabola ends at (15,12.25) and the upward opening parabola starts at (15,12.25)
 
I believe that the problem is that the graph is badly drawn, If I could find the vertex of the two parabolas I could easily find the leading coefficient and have my equation in a matter of seconds, but the axis arent labeled properly nor is the line very well.
 

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