Maximum Value: The maximum value of a quadratic function f(x) = ax2 + bx + c where a < 0,="" is="" the="" y-="" coordinate="" of="" the="">
Minimum Value: The minimum value of a quadratic function f(x) = ax2 + bx + c where a > 0, is the y- coordinate of the vertex.
The quadratic function f(x) = 9 - x2 has the maximum value of 9.
The quadratic function f(x) = 16 + x2 has the minimum value of 16.
A. 2 and 3 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1 and 4 only
Correct Answer: D
Step 1: f(x) = (x - 3)(x + 2) [Write the function.]
Step 2: [Draw the graph of f(x) on the interval [- 5, 2].]

Step 3: f(x) has Maximum Value at x = - 5. [From the graph.]
Step 4: f(x) has Minimum Value at x = 0.5. [From the graph.]
Q1: Which of the following functions has a maximum value?
Q2: The function f(x) = (x-3)(x+5) has a minimum value at which x-coordinate?
Q: How do I find the maximum or minimum value of a quadratic function?
A: Find the vertex of the parabola. The y-coordinate of the vertex is the maximum or minimum value.
Q: What does the sign of 'a' tell me about the function?
A: If 'a' is positive, the parabola opens upwards and has a minimum value. If 'a' is negative, the parabola opens downwards and has a maximum value.