Question

The shape of the graph of a quadratic equation $y = ax^2 + bx + c$, $a \neq 0$, will be

• A. Parabola
• B. Rectangular
• C. Straight line
• D. Circular

Hint:

Quadratic equations always form parabolic graphs — ‘U’-shaped if $a>0$ and inverted ‘U’-shaped if $a<0$.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Recall the standard form of a quadratic equation.
A quadratic equation is written as $y = ax^2 + bx + c$, where $a \neq 0$. The highest power of $x$ is 2, which determines the shape of its graph.
Step 2: Identify the shape.
When the highest power of $x$ is 2, the graph represents a parabola. The direction of opening depends on the sign of $a$:
- If $a>0$, the parabola opens upwards.
- If $a<0$, the parabola opens downwards.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Hence, the shape of the graph of a quadratic equation is a parabola.