Quadratics: How to determine parabola equation.

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    Parabola
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the equations of parabolas given specific points, intercepts, and vertexes. Participants seek assistance in solving two particular problems related to the vertex form of a parabola and the use of given points to find the coefficients.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests help with two specific problems involving parabolas, emphasizing the need for step-by-step guidance.
  • Another participant suggests that the vertex form of a parabola should be used, given the vertex information, and provides the initial equation format.
  • Further elaboration on using the vertex form is presented, with a focus on determining the coefficient 'a' using a provided point.
  • Some participants express confusion about the starting point and the processes required to derive the equations, indicating a need for clarification.
  • A participant mentions having solved the problems but remains uncertain about other questions previously posted.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the solutions to the problems posed, as participants are at different stages of understanding and some express confusion about the methods involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not provided their working out or specific misunderstandings, which may limit the ability to address their queries effectively.

James400
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Hi all. I need a bit of help determining the equation of some parabolas given points, intercepts and vertexes. Below are the exacts questions, any help will be much appreciated as I need this done soon!

1. A parabola has turning point (1,6) and passes through the point (-1,8). Find its equation.

2. A parabola has x-intercepts of 2 and 7 and passes through the point (3,6). Find
the equation of the parabola.

Please show working out!
 
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James400 said:
Hi all. I need a bit of help determining the equation of some parabolas given points, intercepts and vertexes. Below are the exacts questions, any help will be much appreciated as I need this done soon!

1. A parabola has turning point (1,6) and passes through the point (-1,8). Find its equation.

2. A parabola has x-intercepts of 2 and 7 and passes through the point (3,6). Find
the equation of the parabola.

Please show working out!

My reply to your other post holds here too. Please consider posting some of your work, or letting us know what you don't understand.
 
I'm a little confused as to where to start as a matter of fact!:) I know the final objective is to reach the equation in standard form using the information provided, but I'm not sure how to do that (the processes involved). I was just hoping to get a step through of the processes required to reach the answer.
 
James400 said:
Hi all. I need a bit of help determining the equation of some parabolas given points, intercepts and vertexes. Below are the exacts questions, any help will be much appreciated as I need this done soon!

1. A parabola has turning point (1,6) and passes through the point (-1,8). Find its equation.

Since we are given the vertex, let's use the vertex form of a parabola:

$$y=a(x-h)^2+k$$

Since the vertex (turning point) is given as $(1,6)$, we may write:

$$y=a(x-1)^2+6$$

Now, to determine $a$, we may use the other given point $(-1,8)$ as follows:

$$y(-1)=a(-1-1)^2+6=8$$

Solving the above equation for $a$, what do you get?
 
MarkFL said:
Since we are given the vertex, let's use the vertex form of a parabola:

$$y=a(x-h)^2+k$$

Since the vertex (turning point) is given as $(1,6)$, we may write:

$$y=a(x-1)^2+6$$

Now, to determine $a$, we may use the other given point $(-1,8)$ as follows:

$$y(-1)=a(-1-1)^2+6=8$$

Solving the above equation for $a$, what do you get?

I'm all good with these questions now. I solved them a little while ago, but I'm still stuck on the other questions I posted.
 

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