Examine the following equation:

Question

y = -2x^2 + 20x + 1

* What shape does the graph of this equation make? (Hint: You should be able to tell just by looking at the first term of the equation.)
* Does the graph open up or down (Hint: You should also be able to answer this just by looking at the first term of the equation.)

Answer 1

The equation describes an upside-down parabola, opening down.

Plotting the graph yourself should help you visualize the situation. Words can be confusing.