Question

Write an equation for a parabola with x-intercepts (-4,0) and (3,0) which passes through the point (2, -12).

Answer 1

y = 2(x + 4)(x - 3)

Explanation:

Knowing the x-intercepts, we can set up the equation:

y = (x + 4)(x - 3)

However, we are unaware of whether there is a dilation applied to it, so we input a point on the parabola. "a = dilation"

-12 = a(2 + 4)(2 - 3)

-12 = a(6)(-1)

-12 = -6a

2 = a

Now, we can write the equation for the parabola:

y = 2(x + 4)(x - 3)