Chapter 11: Problem 40
Find the vertex of the graph of each function. $$ f(x)=(x-3)^{2} $$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The vertex of the function \( f(x) = (x-3)^2 \) is \( (3, 0) \).
Step by step solution
01
Identify the form of the quadratic function
The given function is expressed as \( f(x) = (x - 3)^2 \). This is a quadratic function in vertex form, which is \( f(x) = (x - h)^2 + k \), where \( (h, k) \) is the vertex.
02
Determine the vertex from the function
In the equation \( f(x) = (x - 3)^2 \), compare it to the general vertex form \( f(x) = (x - h)^2 + k \). Here, \( h = 3 \) and \( k = 0 \) since there is no \( + k \) term. Hence, the vertex of the parabola is \( (3, 0) \).
03
Confirm the vertex location
Given the completed square form \( (x-3)^2 + 0 \), the term \( (x-3) \) indicates a horizontal shift 3 units to the right on the graph. This confirms that \( h = 3 \) and with no vertical shift \( k = 0 \), the vertex remains at \( (3, 0) \).
Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!
-
Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
-
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
-
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
-
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.
Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91Ó°ÊÓ!
Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Quadratic Function
Quadratic functions are a type of polynomial function characterized by their highest degree term being squared. They form a parabolic shape when graphed on a coordinate plane. A standard quadratic function appears as \( f(x) = ax^2 + bx + c \), where \( a, b, \) and \( c \) are constants and \( a eq 0 \). Quadratics are unique in that they can open upwards or downwards:
- If \( a > 0 \), the parabola opens upwards and the vertex is the minimum point.
- If \( a < 0 \), the parabola opens downwards and the vertex is the maximum point.
Vertex Form
The vertex form of a quadratic function is a powerful way of expressing quadratics, which directly shows the vertex of the parabola. The general form is \( f(x) = a(x-h)^2 + k \), where \((h, k)\) is the vertex of the parabola. This form is particularly useful for quickly identifying transformations:
- The term \((x-h)^2\) indicates a horizontal shift \( h \) units from the origin.
- The constant \( k \) reflects vertical shifts.
Parabola Vertex
The vertex of a parabola is the point where it turns. It is either the highest or lowest point, depending on the direction of the parabola. For a quadratic in vertex form \( f(x) = a(x-h)^2 + k \), the vertex is given directly by the point \((h, k)\). Understanding the parabola's vertex is essential for analyzing the graph's behavior:
- Horizontal shifts are represented by \( h \).
- Vertical shifts and transforms are given by \( k \).
Completing the Square
Completing the square is a technique used to transform a quadratic function into its vertex form. It's especially handy when you start with the standard form \( ax^2 + bx + c \) and need to identify the vertex quickly. This method involves:
- Rearranging the equation such that \( ax^2 + bx \) is the focus.
- Adding and subtracting a specific value to make a perfect square trinomial.