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Advanced MathHardConstant term from a known minimum

Advanced Math practice question

The function g is defined by g(x) = x² − 6x + c, where c is a constant. If the minimum value of g is −4, what is the value of c?

Answer: 5

The vertex is at x = 3, and g(3) = 9 − 18 + c = −4, so c = 5.

Common wrong answers

If you answered 3
3 is the x-coordinate of the vertex.
If you answered -4
−4 is the minimum value, not c.
If you answered -13
−13 solves 9 + c = −4, forgetting the −18.

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