Hi, could someone help me with this question?
Suppose f(x) is a quadratic function such that f(1) = -24, f(4) = 0, and f(7) = 60. Determine the value of f(-1).
Thank you so much!
We have the form
y = ax^2 + bx + c
Since f(4) = 0 then 4 is a root
And f(1) = -24
And f(7) = 60
So we have this system of equations
a(4)^2 + b(4) + c = 0
a(1)^2 + b(1) + c = -24
a(7)^2 + b(7) + c = 60 simplify
16a + 4b + c = 0 (1)
a + b + c = -24 (2)
49a + 7b + c = 60 (3)
Subtract (2) from (1)
15a + 3b = 24 (divide through by 3) ⇒ 5a + b = 8 ⇒ b = 8 - 5a (4)
Subtract (1) from ( 3)
33a + 3b = 60 (divide through by 3) ⇒ 11a + b = 20 (5)
Sub (4) into (5)
11a + (8 - 5a) = 20
6a = 12
a = 2
b = 8 - 5(2) = -2
a + b + c = -24
2 - 2 + c = -24
c = -24
So our polynomial is
f(x) = 2x^2 - 2x - 24
f(-1) = 2(-1)^2 - 2(-1) - 24 = -20
Here's a grqph : https://www.desmos.com/calculator/xzq6el9uj2