If a parabola has x-intercepts at (−12, 0) and (−6, 0), which of these is its axis of symmetry?

x=−10

x=−3

x=−18

x=−9

1 answer

The axis of symmetry of a parabola that has x-intercepts at \((-12, 0)\) and \((-6, 0)\) can be found by determining the midpoint of the x-intercepts.

To find the midpoint \(M\) of the x-intercepts, you can use the formula:

\[ M = \frac{x_1 + x_2}{2} \]

where \(x_1\) and \(x_2\) are the x-coordinates of the intercepts. In this case, \(x_1 = -12\) and \(x_2 = -6\).

Calculating the midpoint:

\[ M = \frac{-12 + (-6)}{2} = \frac{-18}{2} = -9 \]

Thus, the axis of symmetry of the parabola is \(x = -9\).

Therefore, the correct answer is:

x = -9