16Hit1600
Advanced MathHardVertex form to x-intercepts

Advanced Math practice question

The function h is defined by h(x) = (x − 4)² − 9. At which values of x does the graph of h cross the x-axis?

  1. A. 1 and 7Correct
  2. B. 4 and −9
  3. C. −1 and −7
  4. D. 4 only

Answer: A. 1 and 7

Set (x − 4)² = 9, so x − 4 = ±3, giving x = 1 or x = 7.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. 4 and −9
4 and −9 are the vertex's coordinates, not the x-intercepts.
C. −1 and −7
−1 and −7 flip the signs; x − 4 = ±3 gives 1 and 7.
D. 4 only
x = 4 is where the vertex is, and h(4) = −9, not 0.

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