Characteristics Of A Parabola

Maximum Value

If the parabola opens down, the vertex represents the highest point on the graph, or the maximum value.

Minimum Value

If the parabola opens up, the vertex represents the lowest point on the graph, or the minimum value of the quadratic function.

Vertex

One important feature of the graph is that it has an extreme point, called the vertex.

Axis Of Symmetry

The graph is also symmetric with a vertical line drawn through the vertex, called the axis of symmetry.

Parabola

The graph of a quadratic function is a U-shaped curve called a parabola.

Direction

The parabola can either open up or down

X Intercepts

The point where the parabola touches the x axis

Y Intercept

The point where the parabola touches the y axis