Final answer:
The maximum value of the function is 3.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the maximum value of the quadratic function y = -x² + 4x - 1, we need to determine the vertex of the parabola represented by the function. The x-coordinate of the vertex can be found using the formula x = -b/(2a), where a is the coefficient of x² and b is the coefficient of x.
In this case, a = -1 and b = 4, so x = -4/(2*(-1)) = 2. Plugging this value of x into the function, we get y = -2² + 4*2 - 1 = -4 + 8 - 1 = 3.
Therefore, the maximum value of the function y = -x² + 4x - 1 is 3.
Learn more about Quadratics and Square Roots Attributes