You are here:

Advanced Math/Simultaneous equations

Advertisement


Question
Hi, I'm taking Precalc and I need help with a problem.
How do I write the equation of a parabala that passes through the points (0, 1) (2, -1) (1, 3).

Answer
Questioner:   Kelsey
Category:  Advanced Math
Private:  No
 
Subject:  Precalc Algebra 2
Question:  Hi, I'm taking Precalc and I need help with a problem.
How do I write the equation of a parabala that passes through the points (0, 1) (2, -1) (1, 3).
............................
Hi, Kelsey,

You take your basic form:

y = ax^2 + bx + c,

and your three points:

(0, 1) (2, -1) (1, 3)

and you substitute.  Then you will have three equations in a,b,c which you solve.

That's it.  

Advanced Math

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


Paul Klarreich

Expertise

I can answer questions in basic to advanced algebra (theory of equations, complex numbers), precalculus (functions, graphs, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions and identities), basic probability, and finite mathematics, including mathematical induction. I can also try (but not guarantee) to answer questions on Abstract Algebra -- groups, rings, etc. and Analysis -- sequences, limits, continuity. I won't understand specialized engineering or business jargon.

Experience

I taught at a two-year college for 25 years, including all subjects from algebra to third-semester calculus.

Education/Credentials
-----------

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.