Display Title
Definition--Quadratics Concepts--y-intercept
Display Title
y-intercept
Topic
Quadratics Concepts
Definition
The y-intercept of a function is the point where the graph intersects the y-axis, indicating the value of f(x) when x = 0.
Description
The y-intercept is an essential feature of a function, particularly in understanding quadratic functions' behavior. It represents the point where the graph intersects the y-axis, or the output value (f(x)) when the input (x) is zero. For any quadratic function in standard form
f(x) = ax2 + bx + c
the y-intercept can be easily identified as the constant term c. In practical scenarios, y-intercepts often represent specific values relevant to real-world situations, such as initial conditions in physics or starting values in business models. In math education, knowing how to find y-intercepts enhances students' ability to graph functions accurately and analyze their behavior.
An illustrative example is for the quadratic function
f(x) = 2x2 + 3x + 1
where evaluating at x = 0 gives the y-intercept (0, 1).
For a complete collection of terms related to Quadratic Expressions, Functions, and Equations click on this link: Quadratics Collection
| Common Core Standards | CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSN.CN.C.7, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSA.SSE.B.3.B, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSA.REI.B.4.A, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSF.IF.C.8.A |
|---|---|
| Grade Range | 6 - 10 |
| Curriculum Nodes |
Algebra • Quadratic Functions and Equations • Quadratic Equations and Functions |
| Copyright Year | 2021 |
| Keywords | quadratic functions, quadratic equations, quadratic formula, definitions, glossary terms |
