Equation of a parabola

Question

How can I find the equation of a parabola when I am given a=1 (I have a graph but do not know the steps I need to take)

Answer 1

Hi, Jarod!

 

The vertex form of a parabola that opens either up or down is:

 

y=a(x-h)^2+k where (h,k) is the vertex of your parabola. 

 

 

If a is positive the parabola will open up/to the right, and if a is negative it will open down/to the left. 

 

Suppose you've observed your parabola opens up and the vertex has coordinates of (3,2)

 

By plugging in a=1, h=3 and k=2 we obtain the following equation:

 

y=(x-3)^2+2