Final answer:
The axis of symmetry for the function f(x) = 5(x - 1)² - 8 is x = 1.
Step-by-step explanation:
The function f(x) = 5(x - 1)² - 8 is a quadratic function in vertex form, where the vertex is given by (h, k), with h being the x-coordinate and k being the y-coordinate. In this case, the vertex is (1, -8).
Therefore, the axis of symmetry is the vertical line that passes through the vertex. Since the x-coordinate of the vertex is 1, the equation of the axis of symmetry is x = 1.
So, the correct answer is x = 1.