Math Problem Statement

Graph the parabola given by f(x) = (1/2)(x - 2)^2 - 3. Give the vertex, axis of symmetry, domain, and range.

Solution

Let's analyze the function given in the image and extract the necessary information:

The function is: f(x)=12(x2)23f(x) = \frac{1}{2}(x - 2)^2 - 3

This is a quadratic function in vertex form, f(x)=a(xh)2+kf(x) = a(x - h)^2 + k, where:

  • hh and kk represent the vertex of the parabola.
  • aa controls the direction and width of the parabola (if a>0a > 0, the parabola opens upwards; if a<0a < 0, it opens downwards).

1. Vertex

Since the function is in vertex form, we can identify the vertex directly from (h,k)(h, k):

  • Here, h=2h = 2 and k=3k = -3.
  • Therefore, the vertex is (2,3)(2, -3).

2. Axis of Symmetry

The axis of symmetry of a parabola in vertex form f(x)=a(xh)2+kf(x) = a(x - h)^2 + k is the line x=hx = h.

  • For this function, the axis of symmetry is x=2x = 2.

3. Domain

Since this is a quadratic function, the domain is all real numbers.

  • In interval notation, the domain is (,)(-\infty, \infty).

4. Range

Since a=12>0a = \frac{1}{2} > 0, the parabola opens upwards, and the minimum value of f(x)f(x) is at the vertex, y=3y = -3.

  • Therefore, the range is [3,)[-3, \infty).

Summary of Answers

  • Vertex: (2,3)(2, -3)
  • Axis of Symmetry: x=2x = 2
  • Domain: (,)(-\infty, \infty)
  • Range: [3,)[-3, \infty)

Would you like further details on any part of this explanation?

Here are some additional questions to consider:

  1. What would change in the vertex if we modified the value of hh or kk?
  2. How does the coefficient aa affect the width of the parabola?
  3. What if aa was negative? How would that affect the direction and range?
  4. Can the axis of symmetry ever be something other than x=hx = h in vertex form?
  5. How do you find the vertex if the equation is in standard form instead of vertex form?

Tip: When graphing parabolas, always identify the vertex and axis of symmetry first; they serve as central guides for sketching the shape accurately.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Quadratic Functions
Parabolas

Formulas

Vertex form of a parabola: f(x) = a(x - h)^2 + k

Theorems

Axis of Symmetry for Parabolas
Domain and Range of Quadratic Functions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10