
Dominick F. answered 01/13/24
Experienced Math Tutor Specializing in Algebra & Pre-algebra
The given equation y = (1/2)x2 represents a vertical compression by a scale factor of 2 compared to the parent function y = x2. When the coefficient of x2 is between 0 and 1, as in this case ½, it results in a vertical compression. In contrast, a coefficient greater than 1 would indicate a vertical stretch. Therefore, the correct interpretation is a vertical compression by a scale factor of 2.

Doug C.
Think of it this way. For f(x)=Ap(x), the value of A multiplies the y-coordinate of every point on the parent by A. If 0<A<1, then the y-values get smaller. If A>1, the y-values get larger. If A<0, the points are reflected over the x-axis. Try experimenting with the following graph: desmos.com/calculator/pgmiexdp35 The graph in red is the parent function. You can click on the function type to see different types of functions.01/13/24
Braden H.
So is a vertical compression by a scale factor of 1/2 the same as a vertical stretch by a scale factor of 2?01/13/24