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How to Graph a Parabola When Multiplied

A function is a mathematical instrument that allows the manipulation of a number of inputs, and then generates an output. There are many examples of mathematical functions and these include power functions, trigonometric functions and exponential functions. Power functions which take the general form y=x^n have a parabolic graph when n is even. Multiplication of a parabolic graph by some pre-factor will lead to a general stretching of the graph in the y direction.

Things You'll Need

Graph paper

Instructions

- 1
  Write down the parabolic function. When a parabolic function is multiplied by some number it is stretched in the y direction. For example, the form of a general parabola is y=x^2, to stretch it by a factor of three in the y direction, the equation becomes y= 3*x^2.
- 2
  Substitute some values for x into the equation in order to generate a table. Following the example y=3*x^2, if x=1, then 3*x^2=2. If x=2, then 3*x^2=12. If x=3, then 3*x^2=27.
- 3
  Draw the axes on the graph paper. Label the x axis "x" and the y-axis "3*x^2." Plot the points on the graph and join adjacent points with a ruler. The graph should look like a parabola stretched in the y direction.

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