Question

determine if the parabola whose equation is given opens upward or downward.

(y = x^2 - x + 2)

does the parabola open upward or downward?

downward

upward

Explanation:

Identify the quadratic equation

We are given the quadratic equation of a parabola:

$$y = x^2 - x + 2$$

Identify the leading coefficient

Using the Parabola Graphing knowledge point, we compare the given equation to the standard form of a quadratic function:

$$y = ax^2 + bx + c$$

Here, the leading coefficient is:

$$a = 1$$

Determine the direction of opening

Since the leading coefficient \(a = 1\) is greater than zero (\(a > 0\)), the parabola opens upward.

Answer:

• downward
• upward (Correct answer)