Graph h(x) = 0.5(x + 2)^2 − 4 by following these steps: | Steps: Step 1: Identify a, h, and k. | Step 1: | Step 2: Plot the vertex at (−2, −4). | Step 2: | Step 3: The axis of symmetry is the line | Step 3: | Step 4: Evaluate the function at two other x-values: | Step 4: | Step 5: Plot the points (−4, −2) and (−6, 4). | Step 5: | Step 6: Use the property of symmetry to plot two more corresponding points on the right side of the vertical line. | Step 6: | Step 7: The smooth curve through these points shows the graph of the function. | Step 7: | [=]
The function is in vertex form, h(x) = a(x − h)² + k. Since x + 2 = x − (−2), the vertex has x-coordinate −2, so the axis of symmetry is the vertical line x = −2. The matching choice is −2.
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