how do i graph a parabola?

Question

phi · Answer

with geogebra ?  or wolfram ?
or do you mean by hand ?

anonymous · Answer

hand i geuss i'm just given a normal graph lay out it's online but it's neither of those it's 'aleks' algebra2 so

phi · Answer

I would guess they would want you to find the vertex  (max or min point)
the x-intercepts  (set the parabola = 0 and solve for x)

then draw a curve through those points.

you can also create a table of x,y values.  Pick small x numbers (to make the math easy) and find the y values.  plot the points, and connect the dots.

phi · Answer

Here is an example from Khan http://www.khanacademy.org/math/trigonometry/polynomial_and_rational/solving_graphing_quadratics/v/graphing-a-quadratic-function

anonymous · Answer

my problem is y=-1/4x^2 but i havn't graphed a parabola before so i'm a bit confused

aravindg · Answer

Its simple think of it like a cup or hat

phi · Answer

In that case, watch the video.  It is short.

aravindg · Answer

If coefficient of x^2 is negative it looks like a hat

aravindg · Answer

else it resembles a cup

anonymous · Answer

i can put points on a graph i just know what points to plot.. is 1/4 rise over run or what and  video?

aravindg · Answer

This tutorial is awesome ! http://www.mathwarehouse.com/geometry/parabola/standard-and-vertex-form.php

anonymous · Answer

ok thanks! =)