Quadratic Function – Introduction

QUADRATIC FUNCTION

DEFINITION

A quadratic function is a function of the form f(x) = ax² + bx + c, where a, b, and c are real numbers, and a ≠ 0. The function maps real numbers to real numbers.

MEANING OF THE COEFFICIENTS:

1. LEADING COEFFICIENT (a):
2. • If a > 0, the graph (parabola) opens upwards.
   • If a < 0, the graph opens downwards.
   • The magnitude of |a| affects the width of the graph; the larger |a| is, the "narrower" the graph.
2. LINEAR COEFFICIENT (b): The coefficient 'b' influences the position of the vertex of the parabola and its axis of symmetry.
3. CONSTANT TERM (c): Represents the point where the graph intersects the y-axis, i.e., the point (0, c).