Vertex form: vertex, axis of symmetry, and transformations
Identify the vertex, axis of symmetry, and direction of opening of a parabola in vertex form, and describe its transformations from y = x^2. Unlimited questions, five difficulty levels, and a full worked solution every time — free.
Try one
A parabola has the equation shown. What is the equation of its axis of symmetry?
y = (x - 1)2 + 4
Answer: x = 1
See one solved, step by step
A parabola has the equation shown. What are the coordinates of its vertex?
y = −(x + 6)2 + 9
- (9, −6)
- (6, 9)
- (−6, −9)
- (−6, 9)
📘 Worked solution
1y = −(x + 6)2 + 9This is vertex form: y = a(x - h)^2 + k.
2The bracket is (x + 6), so h = −6 — the h-value is the OPPOSITE of the sign shown.Because the form subtracts h, a bracket like (x - n) means h = n, and a bracket like (x + n) means h = -n.
3k = 9 is the number added at the end.k shifts the graph up or down and is read directly from the equation.
4Since a = −1 < 0, the parabola opens downward.This tells us the vertex is a maximum point.
5Vertex: (−6, 9)Put h and k together as the point (h, k).
Ready to master it?
Jump into unlimited practice — your Winny Score tracks you to 100. And if it won't click, a real tutor will make it click: first lesson free.
Start practicing