Question

Explain the meaning of the terms “parent function” and “function family" in 2-3 sentences

Answer 1

A "parent function" is the simplest form of a function from which a family of functions is derived, typically representing the most basic characteristics of that function type. A "function family" consists of a group of functions that share the same shape or properties but can differ by transformations such as shifts, stretches, or reflections. For example, the quadratic parent function \( f(x) = x^2 \) leads to the family of quadratic functions like \( f(x) = ax^2 + bx + c \).