1.

3 Comparing Linear and Quadratic Functions

Learning Goal
● Identify and compare the characteristics of linear and quadratic functions

Recall:
● Linear equations (y =mx + b ) produce straight lines
● Quadratic equations (y=ax2 + bx + c) produce parabolas
● Both Linear and Quadratic equations are relations that are also functions

Table of Values
x y = 3x - 1

-2

-1

x y = x2 + 2

-2

-1

Degree
● the degree of a function can also be used to describe what type of equation you have
Linear Equations: Quadratic Equations:
Complete the following table, state the degree and the corresponding function type
Equation Degree Function Type

y = 3x + 1

y = 2x2 + 7x - 10

y = x3 + x 2

y = -5x - 11

y = x2

Example: State the degree of each function and identify if it is linear or quadratic
a) f(x) = 3x(x + 1) b) m(x) = (x + 2)2 - x2

Example: Migrating butterflies travel about 128 km each day. The distance it travels d(t), in
kilometers, is a function of time t days.
a) Write an equation using function notation to represent the distance a butterfly travels in t days

b) State the degree of the function and whether it is linear or quadratic

c) Use the function to calculate the distance the butterfly travels in 20 days

d) If the butterfly travels on average 20 days determine the domain and range of the function

Key Points
● Linear functions have a constant first difference, a degree of 1, and graphs that are lines
● Quadratic functions have constant second differences, a degree of 2, and graphs that are
parabolas