Question

Determine whether the graph of the quadratic function y = –x^2 – 10x + 1 opens upward or downward. Explain.

A. Because a > 0, the parabola opens upward.
B. Because a < 0, the parabola opens upward.
C. Because a < 0, the parabola opens downward.
D. Because a > 0, the parabola opens downward.

Answer 1

C. If the first coefficient is negative, then the graph opens downwards