On the graph above, when x=1/2, y=2;

Adam

Hi Snigdha,
Essentially, yes, we don't need to know this. All we need to know is that the graph is symmetric w.r.t. the line x=2 and that there is the point (1,1).

Feb 6, 2017 • Reply

Cydney Seigerman, Magoosh Tutor

Hi Iriho,

Happy to clarify :) Parabolas are symmetrical about a vertical line that divides the parabola into 2 congruent or identical halves. These two halves are reflections of each other. This vertical line is also called the axis of symmetry of the parabola and always passes through the vertex of the parabola.

When we say that the graph is symmetric with respect to the line x = 2, we are saying that the axis of symmetry of the parabola is the line x = 2. This line cuts the parabola into two equal halves and also goes through the vertex of the parabola.

I hope this clarifies things :)

Dec 5, 2016 • Reply