Math Problem Statement

Write an equation for the function whose graph is shown to the right. The graph shows a transformation of a common function.

Solution

The graph provided appears to represent a transformed parabola. Since the shape resembles a parabola opening upwards, it seems to be a variation of the basic quadratic function f(x)=x2f(x) = x^2, but transformed.

Here are some observations about the transformation:

  1. Vertex: The vertex is at (0,1)(0, -1), which indicates a vertical shift down by 1 unit.

  2. Standard Form: The equation for a parabola is typically f(x)=a(xh)2+kf(x) = a(x - h)^2 + k, where:

    • (h,k)(h, k) is the vertex.
    • aa controls the vertical stretch or compression.

    Based on the vertex (0,1)(0, -1), we can substitute h=0h = 0 and k=1k = -1, giving: f(x)=a(x0)21=ax21.f(x) = a(x - 0)^2 - 1 = a x^2 - 1.

  3. Width of the Parabola: From the graph, the parabola appears to have a typical width (suggesting no vertical stretch or compression), so aa is likely 1. Thus, the equation is: f(x)=x21.f(x) = x^2 - 1.

This means the graph represents the function: f(x)=x21.f(x) = x^2 - 1.

Would you like further details or have any specific questions on this? Here are some related questions to deepen your understanding:

  1. What happens if the parabola opens downward?
  2. How would changing the value of aa affect the graph?
  3. What transformations occur if we move the vertex to (h,k)(h, k)?
  4. Can this form be applied to other common functions like cubic or exponential?
  5. How do vertical and horizontal shifts influence the function’s graph?

Tip: When identifying transformations of functions, pay close attention to the vertex, axis of symmetry, and the stretching or compressing effects to accurately write the equation.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Functions
Transformations
Quadratic Functions

Formulas

f(x) = a(x - h)^2 + k

Theorems

Vertex form of a quadratic function

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12