Finding vertex of quadratic equation?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the vertex, axis, domain, and range of quadratic equations, specifically focusing on the forms of the equations provided and the methods to determine the vertex.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the vertex formula and the process of completing the square. Some express uncertainty about factoring and the correct application of formulas. Questions arise regarding the steps taken in completing the square and the implications of the coefficients in the equations.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of different methods to find the vertex, with some participants providing guidance on completing the square. Multiple interpretations of the steps involved are being examined, and participants are clarifying their understanding of the process.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention confusion regarding the application of the vertex formula and the need to balance equations when completing the square. There is a focus on ensuring the equations remain equivalent throughout the manipulation process.

skyza
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I have to find the vertex, axis, domain, & range of this quadratic equation:

f(x)= -1/2(x+1)^2 -3

I can't remember how to do the vertex. Is it y= -b/2a?

Also, I tried factoring the equation, but I think I messed up. I ended up with:

f(x)= .25x^2 +.5x-2.75



Thanks
 
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skyza said:
I have to find the vertex, axis, domain, & range of this quadratic equation:

f(x)= -1/2(x+1)^2 -3

I can't remember how to do the vertex. Is it y= -b/2a?

Also, I tried factoring the equation, but I think I messed up. I ended up with:

f(x)= .25x^2 +.5x-2.75



Thanks

I assume your equation is$$
f(x) = -\frac 1 2(x+1)^2-3$$If so, it is already in the form you need to locate the vertex. Note that the ##(x+1)^2## factor is always greater than or equal zero. Its contribution will be least when it is 0, which happens when ##x=-1##. So your vertex is at ##(-1,-3)##. No need to memorize formulas; just complete the square like in this problem.
 
Thanks for the help.

I'm trying to find the vertex of:

f(x)= -3x^2 +24x-46

and I ended up with:

-3x+144-sqrtof 190
 
What are your a and b terms?

The x coordinate of the vertex is [itex]\frac{-b}{2a}[/itex], once you have that, you need another coordinate right?
 
skyza said:
Thanks for the help.

I'm trying to find the vertex of:

f(x)= -3x^2 +24x-46

Complete the square on that. Then do what I showed you in my previous post. You do know how to complete the square, right?
 
LCKurtz said:
Complete the square on that. Then do what I showed you in my previous post. You do know how to complete the square, right?

I tried completing the square for:

f(x)= -3x^2 +24x-46

That's how I ended up with that.
I divided 24/2 and added it to both sides and got

-3x+144-sqrtof 190
 
skyza said:
I tried completing the square for:

f(x)= -3x^2 +24x-46

That's how I ended up with that.
I divided 24/2 and added it to both sides and got

-3x+144-sqrtof 190

No. You have to factor out the -3 to start, complete the square on the inside, and balance it out:
##f(x) = -3(x^2 -8x + ?) -46 + ?##
 
LCKurtz said:
No. You have to factor out the -3 to start, complete the square on the inside, and balance it out:
##f(x) = -3(x^2 -8x + ?) -46 + ?##

Alright, I've gotten to:

-3(x-4)(x-4)=62
or
-3(x-4)^2=62
or
-3(x-4)^2 -62=0

What do I do from here?
 
I've figured it out.
 
  • #10
skyza said:
Alright, I've gotten to:

-3(x-4)(x-4)=62
or
-3(x-4)^2=62
or
-3(x-4)^2 -62=0

What do I do from here?

You don't set it equal to anything. What you should have written is$$
f(x) = -3(x^2-8x+16)-46+48 = -3(x-4)^2+2$$From there it is clear that the vertex is ##(4,2)##.
 
  • #11
LCKurtz said:
You don't set it equal to anything. What you should have written is$$
f(x) = -3(x^2-8x+16)-46+48 = -3(x-4)^2+2$$From there it is clear that the vertex is ##(4,2)##.

Why did you add 48 to -46 and instead of adding 16?
 
  • #12
LCKurtz said:
You don't set it equal to anything. What you should have written is$$
f(x) = -3(x^2-8x+16)-46+48 = -3(x-4)^2+2$$From there it is clear that the vertex is ##(4,2)##.

skyza said:
Why did you add 48 to -46 and instead of adding 16?

I didn't just add 16. There is a -3 out in front so I really put in -48 and I have to take it back out if I'm not to change the equation.
 
  • #13
LCKurtz said:
I didn't just add 16. There is a -3 out in front so I really put in -48 and I have to take it back out if I'm not to change the equation.

That's what I thought. Thanks!
 

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