A parent function is the simplest form of a function in a family of functions that share similar characteristics. It serves as the foundation for other, more complex functions within the same family. These more complex functions are created by applying transformations (such as shifting, stretching, compressing, or reflecting) to the parent function.

Here are some common parent functions:

1. Linear Parent Function: $f(x) = x$
2. Quadratic Parent Function: $f(x) = x^2$
3. Absolute Value Parent Function: $f(x) = |x|$
4. Cubic Parent Function: $f(x) = x^3$
5. Square Root Parent Function: $f(x) = \sqrt{x}$

By understanding the parent function, you can easily predict how transformations affect the graph of the function.

Would you like to explore more about transformations of these functions?

Here are some related questions:

1. What are the key transformations applied to a parent function?
2. How does the graph of $f(x) = x^2$ change if we shift it horizontally or vertically?
3. What is the difference between a parent function and its transformed version?
4. How do reflections across the x-axis or y-axis affect parent functions?
5. What is the parent function of exponential or logarithmic functions?

Tip: Learning how transformations affect parent functions can help in graphing more complex functions quickly and accurately.