Graphing Parabolas using the vertex

Question

y = -1/4x^2

Identify the vertex of each. Then sketch the graph.

Answer 1

y = (-1/4)x^2 has vertex at the origin (0,0). It's downward opening. (0,0) is the maximum point, axis of symmetry is x=0. the x and y intercepts are (0,0)

(2,-1) and (-2,-1) are points on the parabola. Plot those 2 points and the origin, draw a smooth parabolic curve through them. Focus is (0,-1) Directrix is y=1