Question

The table below shows some of the values of y = x2 + x − 4 for values of x from –3 to 3.

(a) Complete the table by finding the values of y for x = –1 and for x = 1.

Answer 1

When x=-1, y=x^2+x-4 is -4. When x=1, y=x^2+x-4 is -2.

Explanation:

First, insert the value of x into the equation.

y=-1^2+-1-4

Then, solve for y.

y=-1^2+-1-4

(Any negative squared is always a positive!)

y=1-1-4

y=0-4

y=-4

Repeat this to find the value of y when x=1.

y=1^2+1-4

(Remember, 1 to the power of anything is always 1.)

y=1+1-4

y=2-4

y=-2