the Axis of Symmetry in Math: How to Divide and Mirror Shapes and Curves

Axis of Symmetry

The vertical line that divides a parabola into two identical halves. Can be calculated when a quadartic equation is in standard form using the formula: xb/2a

The axis of symmetry is a line that divides a shape or curve into two perfectly mirrored halves. In math, the axis of symmetry is typically used to describe the line that divides a parabola into two equal halves.

For example, a basic quadratic function in the form of y = ax^2 + bx + c will have an axis of symmetry that is defined by the equation:

x = -b/2a

This means that if you plot the points of the parabola on a graph, the line x = -b/2a will run straight down the center and each side of the parabola will be a mirror image of the other.

The axis of symmetry can also be used to describe other shapes, such as circles and ovals. In these cases, the axis of symmetry will be a line that divides the shape into two mirrored halves, just like with a parabola.

Overall, the axis of symmetry is an important concept in math and geometry, as it helps us to understand how shapes and curves can be perfectly divided and mirrored.

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