Analytic geometry is a powerful tool that allows us to study mathematical objects using algebraic techniques. In this article, I’ll be exploring the concept of x-intercepts in quadratic functions and how we can determine which point on a graph represents an x-intercept. Specifically, we’ll be examining the quadratic function f(x) = (x – 4)(x + 2) and identifying its x-intercept.
To find the x-intercept of a quadratic function, we need to determine the values of x for which the function equals zero. In other words, we’re looking for the points where the graph intersects the x-axis. By setting f(x) equal to zero and solving for x, we can identify these points.
In the case of f(x) = (x – 4)(x + 2), our goal is to find out if there are any solutions where f(x) equals zero. If there are any such solutions, those points will represent the x-intercepts of our quadratic function. By applying algebraic techniques and evaluating different possibilities, we can pinpoint these critical points on the graph.
Which Point is an X-Intercept of the Quadratic Function f(x) = (x – 4)(x + 2)?
What is Analytic Geometry?
Analytic geometry is a branch of mathematics that combines algebraic techniques with geometric concepts to study and analyze mathematical objects in a coordinate system. It provides a powerful framework for understanding the relationships between algebraic equations and geometric shapes.
In analytic geometry, points are represented by ordered pairs or triples, lines are described using linear equations, and curves can be defined using higher-degree polynomial equations. By assigning coordinates to these mathematical objects, we can investigate their properties and interactions in a systematic manner.
Understanding Quadratic Functions
A quadratic function is a type of polynomial function of degree 2. It has the general form f(x) = ax² + bx + c, where “a,” “b”, and “c” are constants. Quadratic functions often describe parabolic curves when graphed on a coordinate plane.
The coefficient “a” determines whether the parabola opens upwards or downwards. If “a” is positive, the parabola opens upwards; if “a” is negative, it opens downwards. The vertex of the parabola represents the minimum or maximum point of the function depending on its concavity.
Quadratic functions occur frequently in various fields, such as physics, engineering, economics, and computer science. They provide valuable insights into real-world phenomena by modeling relationships between variables that exhibit quadratic behavior.
Understanding Quadratic Functions
Defining Quadratic Functions
Quadratic functions are a fundamental concept in algebra and mathematics. They are a type of polynomial function that follows a specific form: f(x) = ax^2 + bx + c, where ‘a, ‘b’, and ‘c’ are constants. The highest power of x in this equation is 2, which gives quadratic functions their distinct shape.
These functions are widely used to model real-world phenomena such as projectile motion, parabolic arcs, and the behavior of objects under the influence of gravity. By understanding quadratic functions, we gain valuable insights into various scientific disciplines like physics, engineering, economics, and computer science.
Exploring the Equation f(x) = (x – 4)(x + 2)
Let’s delve into the equation f(x) = (x – 4)(x + 2) as an example to understand how quadratic functions work. This particular equation represents a quadratic function with two factors: (x – 4) and (x + 2). To find its x-intercepts or zeros (the points where the graph intersects the x-axis), we set f(x) equal to zero:
By analyzing this equation further, we can determine other important characteristics such as the vertex (the highest or lowest point on the parabola), the axis of symmetry (the vertical line passing through the vertex), and whether it opens upwards or downwards.
In conclusion, by analyzing the quadratic function f(x) = (x – 4)(x + 2), we have identified that it has two x-intercepts at x = 4 and x = -2. This understanding allows us to visualize the behavior of the function on a graph and make further interpretations about its properties.
