# For the function y = x^2 - 2x - 5, determine a)  Its Vertex b)  The x-intercepts in simplified form

Hi, Kristen,

First, we recognize this is a quadratic with a U-shaped graph.  There is a formula that exists for the x-coordinate for the vertex:

x = -b/(2a)

Where a and b come from the equation y = ax^2 + bx + c.  Here, a = 1, b =...

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Hi, Kristen,

First, we recognize this is a quadratic with a U-shaped graph.  There is a formula that exists for the x-coordinate for the vertex:

x = -b/(2a)

Where a and b come from the equation y = ax^2 + bx + c.  Here, a = 1, b = -2.  So, we have:

x = -(-2)/(2*1) = -1

Again, that is the x coordinate of the vertex.  Whenever we have any x, to find the y, we can plug it into the original equation.  So:

y = (-1)^2 - 2(-1) - 5 = 1 + 2 - 5 = -2

So, the vertex is (-1,-2)

For all x-intercepts, y = 0.  So, for this, it would be exactly like solving the equation:

0 = x^2 - 2x - 5

This doesn't factor.  So, we have to use the quadratic formula or complete the square.  Doing complete the square, first, add 5 to each side.  So:

5 = x^2 - 2x

Then, take half of b, -2/2 = -1.  Then, square that result, (-1)^2 = 1.  Add that result to both sides.

5+1 = x^2 - 2x + 1

The right side factors now:

6 = (x-1)^2

Square root each side, then add 1 to each side, we have:

x = 1 +- sqrt(6)

So, the x intercepts are (1 + sqrt 6, 0) and (1-sqrt 6, 0).

Good luck, Kristen.  I hope this helps.

Till Then,

Steve

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