Final answer:
The function that represents a vertical compression, reflection in the x-axis, and a translation down 3 units is y = -2/3x^2 - 3.
Step-by-step explanation:
The function that represents a vertical compression, reflection in the x-axis, and a translation down 3 units in relation to the parent function is option C) y = -2/3x^2 - 3.
To understand why this is the correct option, let's break it down:
- Vertical compression: The coefficient in front of the x^2 term determines the vertical stretch or compression. In this case, the coefficient is -2/3, which indicates a vertical compression.
- Reflection in the x-axis: The negative sign in front of the function reflects it in the x-axis.
- Translation down 3 units: The constant term -3 represents a downward translation of 3 units.