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How to Write a Quadratic Function in Standard Form from Vertex Form?

Published in Quadratic Functions 2 mins read

To write a quadratic function in standard form from vertex form, you expand the vertex form equation by squaring the binomial term, distributing any leading coefficient, and then combining like terms.

Here's a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Understand the Forms:

  • Vertex Form: f(x) = a(x - h)² + k, where (h, k) is the vertex of the parabola, and 'a' determines the direction and width.
  • Standard Form: f(x) = ax² + bx + c, where 'a', 'b', and 'c' are constants.

2. The Conversion Process:

Let's say you have the quadratic function in vertex form: f(x) = a(x - h)² + k

  • Step 1: Expand the squared binomial.
    (x - h)² = (x - h)(x - h) = x² - 2hx + h²

  • Step 2: Substitute the expanded form back into the equation.
    f(x) = a(x² - 2hx + h²) + k

  • Step 3: Distribute the leading coefficient 'a'.
    f(x) = ax² - 2ahx + ah² + k

  • Step 4: Combine the constant terms. Let c = ah² + k

  • Step 5: Write the equation in standard form.
    f(x) = ax² + (-2ah)x + (ah² + k) which simplifies to f(x) = ax² + bx + c

3. Example:

Convert f(x) = 2(x - 5)² + 3 to standard form.

  • Step 1: Expand (x - 5)².
    (x - 5)² = (x - 5)(x - 5) = x² - 10x + 25

  • Step 2: Substitute.
    f(x) = 2(x² - 10x + 25) + 3

  • Step 3: Distribute the '2'.
    f(x) = 2x² - 20x + 50 + 3

  • Step 4: Combine constant terms.
    50 + 3 = 53

  • Step 5: Standard Form.
    f(x) = 2x² - 20x + 53

Therefore, the quadratic function in standard form is f(x) = 2x² - 20x + 53.