Question

Suppose a parabola has an axis of symmetry at x = –7 , a maximum height of 4 and also passes through the point (–6, 0). Write the equation of the parabola in vertex form.

Answer 1

y = a(x+7)^2 + 4 If you substitute the given point for "x" and "y", you can solve for "a". Hint: "a" will be negative because the graph has a maximum value.

Answer 2

0 = a(-6 + 7)^2 + 4. Can you solve this for "a"?

Answer 3

I'm not actually sure, never did a word problem like this.

Answer 4

Well, you don't have to worry about the word problem nature of it at this point because I created the equations for you. Just work with those at this point.

Answer 5

Take my last equation and add -4 to each side. Simplify it and type it in this thread.

Answer 6

-4

Answer 7

You got it! Nice work, my friend!

Answer 8

Srry computer's running slow today

Answer 9

My computer always goes slow at Openstudy.

Answer 10

So I'm doing the equation like this? -4+0=(-6 + 7)^2+4+-4

Answer 11

Yes. When you typed in -4 before, I thought you were giving the answer for "a", because that is what it is equal to. a = -4. If you finished out the equation you started, that's what you would get for the answer.

Answer 12

Except you left out the "a"

Answer 13

I was giving the answer for "a". I was just wondering if that's what you wanted me to do afterwards.

Answer 14

I meant the equation, but you appear to know how to get that worked out, so you're fine! Good work, and it looks you are done!

Answer 15

Thanks so much then. (helpful as always lol)

Answer 16

you're welcome!