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Showing posts from April, 2023

Quadratic Functions – What You Need to Know

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Most intermediate-advanced algebra courses cover second degree polynomial functions, called “quadratic functions,” long before introducing general polynomial functions.   Because quadratic functions are simpler versions of general polynomial functions, graph as parabolic curves, and are featured in many real-world situations, this subtopic holds a prominent place in the syllabus. Following is a list of concepts you should firmly understand before taking the SAT/ACT. - [Note: “iff” means “if and only if.”] Definition Quadratic functions: functions involving one first-degree variable and one second degree variable (typically y^1 and x^2). Quadratic Function Standard Form y = ax^2+bx+c. Parabola Vertex = (h,k) with h = -b/2a, k = f(h). Axis: x = h. y-intercept = c. Vertex Form y = a(x–h)^2+k. Vertex = (h,k). Radius = r. Discriminant D = sqrt(b^2–4ac). D > 0 iff 2 real solutions. D = 0 iff 1 real solution. D < 0 iff no solutions. Sum and Product Formula x^2–(sum)x+(prod) = 0. - F...

Quadratic Functions – What You Need to Know

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Most intermediate-advanced algebra courses cover second degree polynomial functions, called “quadratic functions,” long before introducing general polynomial functions.   Because quadratic functions are simpler versions of general polynomial functions, graph as parabolic curves, and are featured in many real-world situations, this subtopic holds a prominent place in the syllabus. Following is a list of concepts you should firmly understand before taking the SAT/ACT. - [Note: “iff” means “if and only if.”] Definition Quadratic functions: functions involving one first-degree variable and one second degree variable (typically y^1 and x^2). Quadratic Function Standard Form y = ax^2+bx+c. Parabola Vertex = (h,k) with h = -b/2a, k = f(h). Axis: x = h. y-intercept = c. Vertex Form y = a(x–h)^2+k. Vertex = (h,k). Radius = r. Discriminant D = sqrt(b^2–4ac). D > 0 iff 2 real solutions. D = 0 iff 1 real solution. D < 0 iff no solutions. Sum and Product Formula x^2–(sum)x+(prod) = 0. - F...

Quadratic Functions – What You Need to Know

Image
Most intermediate-advanced algebra courses cover second degree polynomial functions, called “quadratic functions,” long before introducing general polynomial functions.   Because quadratic functions are simpler versions of general polynomial functions, graph as parabolic curves, and are featured in many real-world situations, this subtopic holds a prominent place in the syllabus. Following is a list of concepts you should firmly understand before taking the SAT/ACT. - [Note: “iff” means “if and only if.”] Definition Quadratic functions: functions involving one first-degree variable and one second degree variable (typically y^1 and x^2). Quadratic Function Standard Form y = ax^2+bx+c. Parabola Vertex = (h,k) with h = -b/2a, k = f(h). Axis: x = h. y-intercept = c. Vertex Form y = a(x–h)^2+k. Vertex = (h,k). Radius = r. Discriminant D = sqrt(b^2–4ac). D > 0 iff 2 real solutions. D = 0 iff 1 real solution. D < 0 iff no solutions. Sum and Product Formula x^2–(sum)x+(prod) = 0. - F...

Factfulness

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Despite rumors to the contrary, things aren't so bad. They're probably quite a bit better than you think. That's the thesis of this book by Swedish author and public health expert Hans Rosling. From the book's description on amazon: "It turns out that the world, for all its imperfections, is in a much better state than we might think. That doesn’t mean there aren’t real concerns. But when we worry about everything all the time instead of embracing a worldview based on facts, we can lose our ability to focus on the things that threaten us most. "Inspiring and revelatory, filled with lively anecdotes and moving stories, Factfulness is an urgent and essential book that will change the way you see the world and empower you to respond to the crises and opportunities of the future." Here's what Bill Gates had to say about Factfulness: “One of the most important books I’ve ever read―an indispensable guide to thinking clearly about the world.” And Barack Obam...

Factfulness

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Despite rumors to the contrary, things aren't so bad. They're probably quite a bit better than you think. That's the thesis of this book by Swedish author and public health expert Hans Rosling. From the book's description on amazon: "It turns out that the world, for all its imperfections, is in a much better state than we might think. That doesn’t mean there aren’t real concerns. But when we worry about everything all the time instead of embracing a worldview based on facts, we can lose our ability to focus on the things that threaten us most. "Inspiring and revelatory, filled with lively anecdotes and moving stories, Factfulness is an urgent and essential book that will change the way you see the world and empower you to respond to the crises and opportunities of the future." Here's what Bill Gates had to say about Factfulness: “One of the most important books I’ve ever read―an indispensable guide to thinking clearly about the world.” And Barack Obam...