Question

How do you find the axis of symmetry, and the maximum or minimum value of the function `y = –x^2 – 14x – 52`?

Answer 1

Max at vertex (-7, -3)

Explanation:

Since a < 0, the parabola opens downward, there is a maximum at vertex.
x-coordinate of axis of symmetry, and vertex:
`x = -b/(2a) = - 14/2 = -7`
y-coordinate of vertex:
y(-7) = -49 + 98 - 52 = -3
Vertex (-7, -3) is a maximum.