Chapter 12: Problem 76
Find the function \(y=a x^{2}+b x+c\) whose graph contains the points \((1,-1),(3,-1),\) and (-2,14).
Short Answer
Expert verified
The function is \( y = x^2 - 4x + 2\).
Step by step solution
01
Set up equations using given points
The function is given by the equation \( y = a x^2 + b x + c \). Plug the points \((1, -1)\), \((3, -1)\), and \((-2, 14)\) into this equation to form a system of equations. For point \((1, -1)\): \( -1 = a(1)^2 + b(1) + c \) which simplifies to \( a + b + c = -1 \). For point \((3, -1)\): \( -1 = a(3)^2 + b(3) + c \) which simplifies to \( 9a + 3b + c = -1 \).For point \((-2, 14)\): \( 14 = a(-2)^2 + b(-2) + c \) which simplifies to \( 4a - 2b + c = 14 \).
02
Write the system of equations
The system of equations derived from step 1 is as follows: 1. \( a + b + c = -1 \) 2. \( 9a + 3b + c = -1 \) 3. \( 4a - 2b + c = 14 \)
03
Subtract equations to eliminate c
To eliminate \(c\), subtract equation 1 from equation 2:\( (9a + 3b + c) - (a + b + c) \) which simplifies to \( 8a + 2b = 0 \) or \( 4a + b = 0 \). Next, subtract equation 1 from equation 3: \( (4a - 2b + c) - (a + b + c) \) which simplifies to \( 3a - 3b = 15 \) then \( a - b = 5 \).
04
Solve for a and b
We now have two simpler equations: \(4a + b = 0\) and \(a - b = 5\). Solve the first equation for \(b\): \( b = -4a \). Substitute \(b\) into the second equation: \( a - (-4a) = 5 \) which simplifies to \( 5a = 5\) thus \( a = 1\). Now substitute \(a\) back into equation \(4a + b = 0\): \( 4(1) + b = 0 \) which simplifies to \( b = -4 \).
05
Solve for c
Substitute \(a = 1\) and \(b = -4\) into p\(( a + b + c = -1 )\) which becomes \( 1 - 4 + c = -1 \). This simplifies to \( c = 2 \).
06
Write the final function
Combine the values for \(a\), \(b\), and \(c\): \[ y = 1x^2 - 4x + 2 \].
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.
System of Equations
When dealing with multiple unknowns, a system of equations can be utilized to find consistent solutions for each variable. In this case, the quadratic function passes through specific points:
- (1, -1)
- (3, -1)
- (-2, 14)
Solving for Variables
Once the system of equations is set up, the next step is to solve for variables \(a\), \(b\), and \(c\). Here, we eliminate one variable at a time. For this specific exercise: We subtract equations to eliminate the variable \(c\): \( (9a + 3b + c) - (a + b + c) = 8a + 2b = 0 \) that further simplifies to \( 4a + b = 0 \). Likewise, we subtract another set to get \( a - b = 5 \). It’s clear now, the task is simplified to solving these new equations:
- \( 4a + b = 0 \)
- \( a - b = 5 \)
Graphing Quadratic Equations
Quadratic functions are frequently represented by parabolas in a graph. Graphing these helps in visualizing the function's roots, vertex, and overall shape. Let’s consider our obtained solution: \( y = x^2 - 4x + 2 \). To graph this:
- Find the vertex
- Locate the axis of symmetry
- Identify x-intercepts (roots)
- Determine the y-intercept
Parabola
A parabola is the graphical representation of a quadratic function. It’s crucial to understand its properties:
- The vertex is the highest or lowest point depending on if it opens upwards or downwards.
- The axis of symmetry is a vertical line passing through the vertex, splitting the parabola into two symmetrical parts.
- The direction of the opening is determined by the sign of the coefficient of \( x^2 \): positive opens upwards while negative opens downwards.
- The vertex is at (2, -2).
- The axis of symmetry is the line \( x = 2 \).
- The parabola opens upwards as the coefficient of \( x^2 \) is 1 (positive).