Forget No More: How to Find a Turning Point in a Quadratic Graph

In summary, a turning point in a quadratic graph is a point where the graph changes direction from increasing to decreasing or vice versa, and it is also known as the vertex of the parabola. To find the turning point, you can use the formula x = -b/2a, and it is important because it gives information about the maximum or minimum value of the graph. A quadratic graph can only have one turning point, and changing the coefficients of the quadratic equation can affect the position of the turning point."
  • #1
Michael17
13
0
I seem to have forgotten the rule to find a Turning point in a quadratic graph. Can anyone help me?
 
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  • #2
The turning point on a quadratic graph is at the vertex, whose x-coordinate is given by [tex]x=\frac{-b}{2a}[/tex]
 
  • #3
That's assuming that the quadratic is y= ax2[/sub]+ bx+ c!

You can find the turning point (vertex) by completing the square.
 
  • #4
Or by 2nd order differentiation.

The Bob
 

FAQ: Forget No More: How to Find a Turning Point in a Quadratic Graph

What is a turning point in a quadratic graph?

A turning point in a quadratic graph is a point where the graph changes direction from increasing to decreasing or vice versa. It is also known as the vertex of the parabola.

How can I find the turning point of a quadratic graph?

To find the turning point of a quadratic graph, you can use the formula x = -b/2a, where a and b are the coefficients of the quadratic equation in standard form (ax² + bx + c = 0). This will give you the x-coordinate of the turning point. To find the y-coordinate, substitute the x-value into the original equation.

Why is finding the turning point important in a quadratic graph?

The turning point is important in a quadratic graph because it gives us information about the maximum or minimum value of the graph. This can help us in solving real-world problems and making predictions based on the data represented by the graph.

Can there be more than one turning point in a quadratic graph?

No, a quadratic graph can have only one turning point, which is the vertex of the parabola. This is because a quadratic function has only one maximum or minimum value.

How does changing the coefficients of a quadratic equation affect the turning point?

Changing the coefficients of a quadratic equation can affect the position of the turning point. For example, if the coefficient of x² (a) is positive, the parabola will open upwards and the turning point will be a minimum value. If a is negative, the parabola will open downwards and the turning point will be a maximum value. Similarly, changing the coefficient of x (b) will affect the x-coordinate of the turning point, while changing the constant term (c) will affect the y-coordinate of the turning point.

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