Interpreting Quadratic Rate of Change

​a and b are the starting and endpoints of the specific interval on the x-axis.

Calculation of speed (of any object) is distance over time (e.g., miles per hour) informs speed laws and manufacturing

​​Speed

Changes in carbon dioxide levels over time inform scientists and urban planners

Climate

Understanding pricing and profit change over time is key to understanding incomes and inflation

​​Profit

Have a CONSTANT rate of change.

*Rate of change for a linear function is also known as the "slope" of a linear function.

​​Linear Functions

Have a VARYING rate of change.

This means that it depends on how 'wide' or 'narrow' the opening of the quadratic is...

Quadratic Functions

​a and b are the starting and endpoints of the specific interval on the x-axis.