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Exploring Quadratic Functions

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Exploring Quadratic Functions

Parabolic ramp illustration

📊 Part 1: Key Features of Quadratic Functions

1. For the quadratic function y = x² - 6x + 8, what is the axis of symmetry?

x = 3

x = -3

x = 6

x = 8

2. Which of the following features can be found in every quadratic function? (Select all that apply)

Turning point (vertex)

Y-intercept

Two x-intercepts

Axis of symmetry

3. If the coefficient 'a' in y = ax² + bx + c is negative, the parabola:

Opens upward

Opens downward

Has no turning point

Is a straight line

4. For the function y = 2x² - 8x + 3, calculate the turning point coordinates.

Turning point: ( _____ , _____ )

🛹 Part 2: Real-World Applications

5. A skate ramp follows the path y = -0.2x² + 1.6x, where x is the horizontal distance in metres and y is the height in metres.

a) What is the maximum height of the ramp? _________ metres

b) At what horizontal distance does the ramp reach its maximum height? _________ metres

6. A water fountain shoots water in a parabolic arc. The height h (in metres) of the water after t seconds is given by h = -5t² + 10t + 2.

a) What is the initial height of the water? _________ metres

b) After how many seconds does the water reach its maximum height?

c) What is the maximum height reached by the water?

🎯 Part 3: Design Challenge

7. You are designing a bridge arch that spans 12 metres horizontally and has a maximum height of 8 metres at its centre. The arch follows a parabolic shape.

a) If you place the vertex at (6, 8), write a possible quadratic equation for the arch in the form y = a(x - h)² + k.

b) Sketch your bridge arch on the coordinate plane below, labelling key points.

8. Explain why quadratic functions are particularly useful in engineering and architectural design. Give at least two reasons.

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