f a parabola has a maximum point, then what shape does it have?

a.
an upward "U" shape
c.
a downward "U" shape
b.
a left, sideways "U" shape
d.
a right, sideways "U" shape

Question

f a parabola has a maximum point, then what shape does it have?
 

a.
an upward "U" shape
c.
a downward "U" shape
b.
a left, sideways "U" shape
d.
a right, sideways "U" shape

accessdenied · Answer

A maximum point means that there is a vertex at the top of this graph, and every other point falls below it so that it opens downward. Can you imagine the parabola with that orientation?

anonymous · Answer

@AccessDenied, do you think the question considers skewed parabolas?

anonymous · Answer

Just wondering if opening "downward" still applies in that case, or if we would have to adjust the language.

accessdenied · Answer

From the choices, I sensed that we only have the cardinal directions for these parabolas, and that there should not be concern for those that are in other orientations.

But as you raise that question, I think I will have to look a bit more into that answer.  :p