Introduction

The study of quadratic functions is a fundamental topic in algebra and calculus, forming a
cornerstone for understanding more complex mathematical concepts. A quadratic function,
typically expressed in the form f(x) = ax^2 + bx + c, where ‘a’,’b’, and ‘c’ are constants,
describes a parabola when graphed on a coordinate plane. The shape and orientation of this
parabola are dictated by the coefficient ‘a’; if ‘a’is positive, the parabola opens upwards,
indicating a minimum point, while if ‘a’is negative, the parabola opens downwards,
signifying a maximum point.

Graphing a quadratic function provides a visual representation that aids in comprehending its
properties, such as the vertex, axis of symmetry, and the direction in which the parabola
opens. The vertex of the parabola, derived from the formula x = -b*2a, serves as a critical
point, representing the function's maximum or minimum value depending on the sign of
‘a’ .This graphical analysis allows one to determine not only the extremum of the function
but also the intervals where the function is increasing or decreasing.

Furthermore, understanding the sign of the expression ax^2 + bx + c is pivotal for solving
inequalities and modeling real-world scenarios. By examining the graph, one can infer where
the quadratic function is positive or negative, which is crucial for interpreting various
phenomena such as projectile motion, economics, and biology, where quadratic functions
often arise.

Objectives
 Examine the quadratic function f(x)=ax^2+bx+c through graphical representation.
 Identify the maximum or minimum value of the function from its graph.
 Analyze the vertex to determine the function's maximum or minimum value.
 Establish the sign of the expression by interpreting the graph, considering the intervals
where the function is positive or negative.
 Develop a comprehensive understanding of the behavior of quadratic functions, including
their symmetry, direction of opening, and vertex significance.

"Quadratic Function Analysis and Graphing"

1. Identify the coefficients:

o a: the coefficient of x2
o b: the coefficient of x.
o c: the constant term.
2. Determine the vertex of the parabola:
o The vertex x-coordinate is given by x = -b/2a
o The y-coordinate (function value at the vertex) can be found by evaluating f(-
b/2a)
3. Determine whether the parabola opens upwards or downwards:
 oIf a > 0, the parabola opens upwards and the vertex represents the minimum
value of the function.
o If a < 0 the parabola opens downwards and the vertex represents the maximum
value of the function.
4. Graph the function:
o Plot the vertex.
o Identify and plot additional points on either side of the vertex.
o Draw the parabola through these points.
5. Determine the sign of the quadratic expression:
o For a > 0, the expression ax^2 + bx + c is positive for x values outside the
interval between the roots and negative within the interval between the roots.
o For a < 0, the expression ax^2 + bx + c is negative for x values outside the
interval between the roots and positive within the interval between the roots.

Let's use these steps for an example quadratic function f(x) = 2x^2 - 4x + 1.

1. Coefficients:
o a=2
o b = -4
o c=1
2. Vertex:
o x = - {-4} / {2. 2} = 1
o y = f(1) = 2(1)^2 - 4(1) + 1 = -1
o Vertex: (1, -1)
3. Parabola direction:
o a > 0, so the parabola opens upwards, indicating a minimum value at the
vertex.
4. Graph the function (we will draw this next).
5. Sign of the quadratic expression:
o For a > 0, the expression is positive outside the interval of the roots and
negative inside.
o First, find the roots using the quadratic formula: x = {-b }√ {b^2 - 4ac}/{2a}.
o For 2x^2 - 4x + 1 = 0, the roots are x = 1 +-1/2, i.e., x = 1/2 and x = 3/2
o The expression is negative between x = 1/2 and x = 3/2 and positive
elsewhere.

Now, let's draw the graph of the quadratic function.

Graph of \(f(x) = 2x^2 - 4x + 1\)

Analysis

Graph:

 The graph of the quadratic function f(x) = 2x^2 - 4x + 1 is a parabola opening

upwards.
  The vertex of the parabola is at (1, -1) , which represents the minimum value of the
function.

Minimum Value:

 The minimum value of the function is ( -1 ) at ( x = 1 ).

Roots:

 The roots of the equation 2x^2 - 4x + 1 = 0 are x = 1/2 and x = 3/2

Sign of the Expression:

 For x in the interval {1/2 , 3/2}, f(x) is negative.

Examples
Example 1

Given Quadratic Function: f(x)=−x^2+6x−9

1. Identify the vertex:

x=−b/2a=−(6)/(2⋅(−1))=6/−2=−3

f(−3)=−(−3)^2+6(−3)−9=−9−18−9=−36

Vertex: (−3,−36)(−3,−36)

2. Determine the intervals where f(x) is positive or negative:

o Since a<0, the parabola opens downwards.
o f(x)≤−36 for all xx.

Example 2

Given Quadratic Function: f(x)=x^2+4x+4

Identify the vertex:

x=−b/2a=−4/(2⋅1) =−4/2=−2

f(−2)=(−2)^2+4(−2)+4=4−8+4=0

Vertex: (−2,0)(−2,0)

1. Determine the intervals where f(x) is positive or negative:

o Since a>0, the parabola opens upwards.
o f(x)≥0 for all x.

Real life examples

1. Projectile Motion: Quadratic functions model the path of objects thrown or projected, such as a
ball being thrown or a rocket launched.

2. Optimization Problems: Quadratic functions are used in business and economics to maximize
profit or minimize cost, such as determining the optimal price for a product to maximize revenue.

3. Engineering and Design: In designing parabolic reflectors or antennas, the shape is often modeled
using quadratic functions to focus signals or light.

4. Sports: In sports analytics, quadratic functions can model the trajectory of a basketball shot or a
golf ball to optimize performance.

5. Architecture: Parabolic arches in architecture are modeled using quadratic functions to ensure
stability and aesthetics.
Conclusion
The exploration of quadratic functions through graphical analysis provides a robust understanding of
their fundamental properties and real-world applications. By graphing quadratic functions, we can
visually interpret key features such as the vertex, axis of symmetry, and the direction in which the
parabola opens. This not only aids in determining the maximum or minimum values of the function
but also in identifying the intervals where the function is positive or negative.

Understanding these concepts is crucial for solving inequalities, optimizing various processes, and
modelling physical phenomena. For instance, in real-life scenarios like projectile motion, business
optimization, and engineering design, quadratic functions play a vital role in predicting outcomes and
making informed decisions. The parabola’s shape and orientation, determined by the sign and value
of the coefficient ‘a’, directly influence the function’s behaviour and application.