Final answer:
The values of a, b, and c for the given equation are 9, 5, and 3 respectively. The parabola opens upwards since the coefficient a is positive. The y-intercept is (0, 3).
Step-by-step explanation:
The equation f(x) = 9x^2 + 5x + 3 represents a quadratic function. To find the values of a, b, and c, we can compare the given equation to the standard form of a quadratic function, f(x) = ax^2 + bx + c. In this case, a = 9, b = 5, and c = 3.
The direction in which the parabola opens can be determined based on the sign of the coefficient a. If a > 0, the parabola opens upwards, and if a < 0, the parabola opens downwards. Since a = 9, the parabola opens upwards.
The y-intercept represents the value of y when x = 0. To find it, substitute x = 0 into the equation: f(0) = 9(0)^2 + 5(0) + 3 = 3. Therefore, the y-intercept is (0, 3).