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Advanced MathHardMaximum and zeros from vertex form

Advanced Math practice question

The function u is defined by u(x) = −2(x + 1)² + 8. Which statement is true?

  1. A. u has a maximum value of 8, and u(x) = 0 at x = 1 and x = −3.Correct
  2. B. u has a minimum value of 8.
  3. C. u has a maximum value of 8, and u(x) = 0 at x = 3 and x = −1.
  4. D. u has a maximum value of −2.

Answer: A. u has a maximum value of 8, and u(x) = 0 at x = 1 and x = −3.

The leading coefficient is negative, so 8 is the maximum (at x = −1). Zeros: (x + 1)² = 4, x = 1 or −3.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. u has a minimum value of 8.
A negative coefficient gives a maximum, not a minimum.
C. u has a maximum value of 8, and u(x) = 0 at x = 3 and x = −1.
x + 1 = ±2 gives 1 and −3, not 3 and −1.
D. u has a maximum value of −2.
−2 is the leading coefficient, not a value of u.

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