Use the equation of the parabola first to determine whether the axis of symmetry is vertical or horizontal. Then determine if the parabola opens upward, downward, left, or right.
$y = ( x + 1 ) ^ { 2 } - 7$
A) Vertical axis of symmetry; opens downward
B) Horizontal axis of symmetry; opens right
C) Vertical axis of symmetry; opens upward
D) Horizontal axis of symmetry; opens left

Question

Use the equation of the parabola first to determine whether the axis of symmetry is vertical or horizontal. Then determine if the parabola opens upward, downward, left, or right. 
$y = ( x + 1 ) ^ { 2 } - 7$
A) Vertical axis of symmetry; opens downward
B) Horizontal axis of symmetry;  opens right
C) Vertical axis of symmetry; opens upward 
D) Horizontal axis of symmetry; opens left

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The equation is in the form $y = a(x - h)^2 + k$, indicating a vertical axis of symmetry. Since $a > 0$, the parabola opens upward.

Use the Equation of the Parabola First to Determine Whether y=(x+1)2−7y = ( x + 1 ) ^ { 2 } - 7y=(x+1)2−7

Use the Equation of the Parabola First to Determine Whether $y = ( x + 1 ) ^ { 2 } - 7$