Question

Two quadratic functions are shown.

Function 1:
f(x) = 3x2 + 6x + 7 Function 2:

x g(x)
−2 13
−1 7
0 3
1 7


Which function has the least minimum value and what are its coordinates?

Answer 1

First, take a look at Function 1. The vertex (which in this case is the same as the minimum value) is at x = -b/ (2a), or x = -6 / (2*3) = -1. At x= -1, f(x) = 3(-1)^2 + 6(-1) + 7 = 4.

Take a look at Function 2. If x = -1, y = 7.

Function 1 has the smaller minimum value (4) of the two quadratics. The min. value of Function 2 is 7.