Definition--Quadratics Concepts--y-intercept
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Algebra >> Quadratic Functions and Equations >> Quadratic Equations and Functions

Definition--Quadratics Concepts--y-intercept

y-intercept

y-intercept Image

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