Question

If the vertex of a parabola is (2, -9) and another point on the curve is (5, 18), what is the coefficient of the squared expression in the parabola’s equation?

a) 3
b) -3
c) 9
d) -9

Answer 1

The coefficient of the squared expression in the parabola's equation is 3.

Step-by-step explanation:

The coefficient of the squared expression in the parabola's equation can be found by using the formula for a parabola y = ax^2 + bx + c, where (h, k) is the vertex. Since the vertex is (2, -9), we have the equation y = a(x-2)^2 - 9. Then, we can substitute the point (5, 18) into the equation to find the value of a. Plugging in the values, we get 18 = a(5-2)^2 - 9. Solving this equation, we find that a = 3.