Quadratic Function (Vertex Form)
How to Use this Applet
The Slider Area
The sliders change the parameters a, p and q in the quadratic function y = a( x − p )² + q.
- Drag a slider to change the value of a parameter.
- The <LEFT> and <RIGHT> arrow keys can be used to change the selected parameter [light blue].
- The <UP> and <DOWN> arrow keys can be used to increase or decrease the selected parameter. (Use this feature for fine adjustments.)
- If the arrow keys don't respond, click the cursor in the applet frame then try again.
- Drag a parameter scale to "move" it. (I.e., change the range but maintain the scale "length".)
- Drag towards or away from a parameter thumb to "re-scale" the scale.
- Select the corresponding parameter button to enter a value for a parameter.
The Graph Area
- Drag the vertex to move the parabola in the coordinate system.
- Drag a location along the parabola (other than the vertex) to change the width of the parabola.
- Click and drag any location in the graph area (not on the parabola) to see the coordinates of the cursor as well as the coordinates of locations along the graph.
- The <SHIFT> key: Click and drag in the graph area to move the entire coordinate system.
- The <CONTROL> key: Click and drag in the graph area towards or away from the origin to change the x and y axis scale.
- The <CONTROL>+<SHIFT> key: Click and drag in the graph area towards or away from the:
- x-axis to change the y-axis scale.
- y-axis to change the x-axis scale.
Other
- Use the "RESET" button to restore the applet to the initial state.
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